Garden Gadgets

There are certain tools that no garden bigger than a postage stamp should be without. A spade, for example, or a trowel. A garden fork is a must and a watering can is a staple. And don't forget the trusty wheelbarrow, first invented by the ancient Greeks and a hit with gardeners ever since. Take your pick from our favourites.

Wheelie useful

For anyone who's wary of vehicles with just one wheel, this "easy pull" barrow is perfect. The big tub will easily transport loads of gubbins in your garden and will even take liquids. Better still, you pull it behind you like a wheelie suitcase, making it simpler to move around your garden with ease. It lays flat for easy loading, and to minimise bending.

29.99 from greenfingers.com

In the pink

We don't approve of flimsy pink garden tools aimed at women, but we rather like this sturdy wheelbarrow. Why? Because with a 90 litre capacity it's as useful as they come, but in a fetching shade of fuchsia to brighten up your garden. A conversion kit is also available, which will transform it from a single wheel to a double wheel model for additional stability.

69.99 from greenfingers.com

A true classic

If you prefer a more traditional approach, this old-fashioned wooden wheelbarrow is perfect. Following the same construction style as 19th-century barrows, it's almost identical to the specs in the manufacturers' 1886 catalogue. Handmade from ash and elm boarding, it's fully functional as well as lovely to look at.

359 from www.mowermagic.co.uk

• This article was first published in the Scotsman, July 31, 2010