Guides
Gardening Tool Guides
Honest, in-depth guides to the tools Monty Don uses and recommends — and how to choose the right ones for your garden.
In-Depth Guide
Monty Don's 7 Essential Garden Tools
The only seven tools you truly need, according to Britain’s most trusted gardener. Every tool examined in detail, with honest buying advice.
12 min read Read
Buyer's Guide
The Best Garden Spade
Our top digging spades compared — from value Spear & Jackson workhorses to a premium stainless Draper, plus a junior spade for kids.
4 spades compared Read
Comparison
Border Spade vs Digging Spade
They look alike but are built for different jobs. How to tell them apart — and which one to buy first.
Quick read Read
Soil Guide
The Best Spade for Heavy Clay Soil
Heavy clay needs the right blade. Why stainless wins, our top picks, and the technique Monty Don swears by.
Quick read Read