I was very taken by the Karro Wheelbarrow. Lightweight, robust and durable with a large wheel (this always helps manoeuvring) it is made entirely from plastic. It weighs 9kg, has ergonomic handles, a low center of gravity and is very stable. What’s not to like? £140 and can be ordered through www.mykarro.com
Gloves are always of interest to gardeners – I have an enormous collection, many of which have holes in the fingers, so I think it is time to cull the less than perfect and invest in a few more. I came back from the show with a pair of MechanixWear womens’ leather-palmed gloves (£22) which are soft, comfortable and washable as well as extremely tough. The sizing is on the small side though so it’s best to buy larger than normal. Burgon & Ball always have innovative displays on their stand – their Love the Glove range (from £12.95) were displayed under glass domes. These gloves are ultra-soft but hardwearing, have padded palm and a wrist strap to keep debris out. www.burgonandball.com
Sneeboer, makers of fine garden tools have had fun with one of their garden spades that they have fashioned into a stool – it’s not for sale, but I best they get lots of enquiries about it – so who knows, in the future it may be added to the range. Just the sort of thing the hipsters love!
Trugs come in every shape and size and the Trugmaker’s Garden featured them in every shape and size. There are still two traditional trugmakers in East Sussex – the Truggery and www.trugmakers.co.uk. They may look elegant but they are also tough as old boots and get better with age – I’ve had mine for eight years and it is gray with age but in perfect condition.
In July I will be staying in a shepherd’s hut in the Vosges Mountains – if it is half as luxurious as the Plankbridge hut (prices start at £15,021 plus vat) at the Show I will be very comfortable indeed – I suspect it will be a bit more basic, but more comfortable than a tent! The Plankbridge has double doors on the side and all mod cons within very beautiful and probably cheaper than an extension.
