garden

Thousands of parents have been left horrified after seeing Google’s top suggested search term if you enter the name of the popular CBeebies show, In the Night Garden

Parents have expressed their shock and amusement in equal measure after one person was left horrified by searching on Google for ‘In the Night Garden’. The show first arrived on CBeebies in 2007 and follows the adventures of several characters including Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka.

It quickly became a hit among young children and toddlers, spanning exactly 100 episodes and inspiring a wide range of clothing, toys and merchandise. A screenshot of the Google search was shared to X, meanwhile, which later made it’s way to Facebook‘s ‘Great British Memes’ page, under the caption: “Googled In the Night Garden and didn’t expect this to show up as a related question.”

The post saw the parent hilariously include their top Google search suggestion, which read, ‘People also ask: Is Upsy Daisy a sl*g?’, which prompted thousands of parents to share their thoughts.

One Facebook user who couldn’t help but see the funny side, quipped in response: “As a parent who suffered many years watching that trollop dance around teasing everyone in sight… the answer to that question is a very clear ‘yes!'”

A second person joked: “Always said she was! Dragging her bed around and lifting her skirt!”

A third added: “You’ve irked a memory of watching In the Night Garden when my youngest was little! I always thought she was a bit fruity.”

Whilst a fourth Facebook user confessed: “I’ve actually Googled this myself after sitting through an episode called Upsy Daisy Kisses Everything!”

Others appeared to be a little more taken aback, however, including one individual who declared: “Well I’ll never watch In the Night Garden the same way again.”

Another added: “I’ll need to watch CBeebies at 6.25 tonight to see this in action.”

And a third said: “I think in the future a psychologist will study in the night garden and reveal it was a cult.”

Despite ceasing production in 2009, In the Night Garden remains a popular show for youngsters to this day with episodes airing daily and all episodes available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

In the Night Garden’s website says of the character in question: “Upsy Daisy is a happy and optimistic dolly. She loves nothing more than to dance through the garden and often convinces other character to join in.

“One of her favourite things is her bed, which has a mind of its own and can often be seen chasing her around the garden.”

The site details the programme further: “In the Night Garden is about a magical picture-book place that exists between waking and sleeping in a child’s imagination. Inhabited by a diverse community of loveable characters that care for each other unconditionally, such as Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka.

“In the Night Garden has been shot in a real woodland setting in the UK. It makes use of innovations in live character costume technology and CG animation, weaving these together within a stunning natural setting to create a compelling and fully immersive experience for young children. It has been devised and produced by Teletubbies creators, Anne Wood and Andy Davenport.”

ONE shopper has said they’re glad they didn’t get to a Morrisons sale any sooner after the retailer slashed the price of garden furniture.

The customer timed their visit to coincide with a 25 per cent price cut on a garden furniture set for members signed up to its rewards scheme.

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The Nutmeg Outdoor Sofa Set from Morrisons is now selling for £18 less than usual.

That is, if you’re signed up to Morrisons More Card scheme.

The More Card scheme offers money off specific items at Morrisons, using the More App which shows offers.

Members can also find printed coupons at the check out to use on price savings.

And right now, the scheme can be used to grab a cracking outdoor sofa set for just £72.

It’s just in time for summer, as you can make full use of it straight away to your vitamin D fix in.

The set consists of two single chairs, and a double sofa – perfect for hosting a get together with friends or family in the garden.

One happy shopper on Facebook celebrated not buying the set any earlier, so she could make full use of the deal.

She said: “Glad now I didn’t manage to get to Morrisons sooner.

“I got an extra 25% off with More Card, so I paid £54 – bargain!”

Another happy punter who appears to have got there a bit sooner, added: “We got this a couple of years ago still going strong.”

This comes as Morrisons has launched a huge summer clearance sale on a range of garden products.

An eager shopper who spotted the offer at her local Morrisons shared the deal on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Facebook page.

Other customers quickly expressed their excitement as they ran to make the most of the affordable prices.

Some of the items on offer had even had their price slashed by 50 per cent.

It included the Nutmeg Outdoor three-piece bistro set for £50, reduced from £100.

The product comes with a table and two chairs featuring comfortable cushions, helping you get your garden summer-ready on a budget.

If you’re needing a more heavy-duty umbrella set up, they’ve also got a parasol base weight for just £35.

Those looking to splash a bit more cash might be interested in Morrisons’ hanging egg chair.

For £95 – reduced from £140 – it’s a great centrepiece for your garden.

Now that your garden is well-equipped to host, it’s time to stock up on barbecue supplies.

For just £8 Morrisons are selling a convenient portable barbecue.

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LAST week saw the hottest day of the year so far, when temperatures hit an incredible 33.2C in Charlwood, Surrey.

Chances are you were drooping in the heat, with low energy levels, unattractive sweating and a high possibility of sunburn.

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Well guess what?

When your garden hits over 32C, much the same is happening to your plants.

They lose water through their leaves faster than they can absorb it, causing wilting, while the leaves themselves can get scorched.

They can also stop growing, as their energy levels are reduced.

But in the same way we splash water on ourselves, stay indoors and apply liberal coatings of suntan lotion, there are many ways of heat-proofing and protecting your garden.

And all of them are cheap or free – and very straightforward.

BE CLEVER WITH POTS

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If you’ve got plants in pots, move them into the shade and group them together, so that they give each other protection.

Light coloured pots are best for container planting as they reflect the heat and sunlight, which in turn keeps the soil cooler and less prone to drying out.

Darker pots will absorb the heat, drying the contents much quicker and stressing the plants more.

B&M currently have some lovely light pink and pale green planters for just £2, while B&Q are selling deep white pots for £3.

It’s worth remembering that pots – and hanging baskets – dry out really quickly in the heat and need much more watering.

When the weather’s this hot, water them daily if you can, giving them a really good soak.

Larger pots retain moisture better, so won’t dry out as quickly.

And while terracotta pots look lovely, they dry out much faster than other pots.

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DON’T BE A WATERING WALLY

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There’s a knack to watering in a heatwave – one of the most important tips to remember is not to water in the daytime.

The best time is early in the morning, before it starts getting really hot, so the water doesn’t evaporate. If that’s not an option, water when the sun’s gone down.

Morning is best, though, as slugs move around at night and love the damp soil.

And don’t water all over the plant, however tempting it is to remove the dust and return the leaves to their glossy former selves.

Aim directly for the roots, as wet leaves can cause fungus to form and, in really extreme cases, magnify the sunlight onto the leaves and cause scorching.

But mainly, it’s just a waste of water.

And give them a really good soaking once or twice a week, rather than a light water daily.

Experts reckon you should count to between 15 and 20 seconds as you water each plant to make sure the water soaks down through the soil to the roots.

LET LAWNS GO BROWN

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It may not give the lush, healthy look that you’re looking for, but there is no problem with letting your lawn go brown.

If it’s healthy, it will cope and the green will return when there’s a bit of rain.

Also, if you’re currently thinking of laying a lawn, aim for a much hardier native lawn seed, like fescue.

This will withstand extreme heat a lot better than some of the more trendy varieties.

It’s also worth considering a lawn seed that’s mixed with wildflower seeds. Johnson’s Nature’s Lawn with Mowable Wildflowers (£12.99) creates a lovely blanket of blooms if you’re letting it grow longer in the heat.

It’s also best to raise your mower’s cutting level and instead of collecting cuttings, let them fall as mulch onto the lawn to keep in moisture.

TRAP WASTE WATER

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Save and store any rainwater to reuse in your garden.

A water butt connected to roof drainage is probably the best option, as it will capture all your rainwater run-off from the pipes.

But a stand alone butt is a great addition to any garden.

There are all sorts on the market at the moment, including ones that attach to walls, which are great for smaller gardens as they don’t take up valuable space.

Argos currently sells a standalone 100 litre butt, with a tap and connecting kit, for just £28.

If you don’t have room for a water butt, just leave a few brightly coloured buckets around to catch any rain.

Or, if you’ve got just a few pots around your garden, you could invest in some cheap self-watering plant spikes, which you fill up with water and stick in your planters.

They release water slowly, reducing the need for a daily soak.

Temu has a set of five for £2.97 – so just 60p a pop.

If you’re feeling spendy, you could splash out on a dipping tank.

They’re beautifully designed and act as an elegant water feature for your garden, as well as creating valuable water storage.

The Dipping Tank Company has a 60cm tank for £395 – not cheap, but it will last a very long time.

You could also set up an irrigation system, although these are also costly. A leaky hose can work just as well.

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CREATE A SHADY OASIS

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With a bit of careful planning you can create a beautiful, calming escape in your garden with just a few choice products.

A sail shade is a quick, cheap and easy way to zone off a corner of your garden.

Dunelm’s Elements Grey Sail Parasol is just £15 at the moment.

Put garden furniture underneath it to create a lovely, cooling retreat. Dobbies Esme bistro set in green is currently on sale for £79.20, instead of £99.

You can surround the area with pots of fast-growing bamboo, which will not only add shade, but a lovely calming sound as the wind rustles through the leaves.

It’s best to keep bamboo in pots, otherwise it spreads underground and can cause real problems. You can even be fined if it spreads to your neighbours’ gardens.

Or you could plant banana trees in planters to create a natural shady barrier around your seating area. They grow really fast and add a proper exotic, tropical vibe, while also protecting you from the sunshine.

YouGarden are selling Musa Basjoo, aka Japanese banana plants, for just £9.99 at the moment.

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WATER GOOD IDEA

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Why not add a calming, cooling water feature to your garden?

Studies have shown that the soothing sounds of moving water can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and promote relaxation.

Hydria Life offers lovely pipe-less moveable fountain systems that fit in any pot of 30cm or more for £99.

You can also buy solar powered fountains that you just pop in a dish of water, birdbath or pond from Amazon for just £6.98.

As well as helping you feel more chilled out, water features attract wildlife, including birds, insects and butterflies, helping to boost your garden’s biodiversity.

They’re also known to help block out unwanted background noise, such as traffic sounds.

PLANTS TO BEAT THE HEAT

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On a recent gardening trip to Venice, where it was topping 27C daily and only going to get hotter, there was a definite planting plan.

In many of the gardens I visited there were agapanthus, pittosporum, lavender, wisteria, jasmine, fig trees and great big Fatsia Japonicas.

They were bursting with colour, but most importantly had been planted because they could withstand the heat.

Other plants that will work well in UK gardens include geums, sedums, achillea, hardy geraniums, rosemary and salvias.

Remember to mulch your plants, which means covering the soil around them with a thin layer of protective material.

This could be wood chippings, well rotted manure, gravel, shredded leaves or special garden mulch.

It keeps the roots cool and moisture locked in, while also preventing weeds that can compete for water.

Lidl has 40 litre bags of decorative bark chips for just £3.49.

ARGOS has kicked off a massive summer sale, offering huge discounts across thousands of products as temperatures start to soar.

The retail giant’s summer deals feature savings of up to 50% – perfect timing for shoppers looking to spruce up their homes and gardens for the sunny season.

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Argos Easter Big Red Event sale: Up to 50% off

The Argos summer sale launched earlier this week, bringing welcome discounts during the peak barbecue and outdoor entertaining season.

This is the ideal moment for shoppers to refresh their outdoor spaces, with fantastic savings on garden furniture, BBQs, and seasonal must-haves.

It’s a prime time for home improvements, and savvy shoppers can snag big discounts on everything from patio sets to indoor furniture upgrades.

Homeware, garden essentials, outdoor cooking equipment, and tech: Argos has covered all bases with its June deals and discounts.

Just remember that popular items tend to sell out fast during Argos sales, so don’t delay if something catches your eye.

We’ve picked out our favourite Argos summer deals below.

Argos summer deals this June

Habitat Kids Rory Curved Single Metal Bed Frame

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Habitat Kids Rory Curved Single Metal Bed Frame
£76 (was £115)

What’s the deal? Snap up this stylish kids’ bed frame with a fab £39 discount – that’s 34% off a statement piece that’ll transform any child’s bedroom this summer.

Why it’s a great buy: This gorgeous curved metal design brings a touch of cool to your little one’s space without breaking your budget.

Available in grey, it’s sturdy enough for everyday use, while its sleek lines add a modern touch that suits any age.

The metal slats provide great support for a comfy night’s sleep during hot summer months, and the simple assembly means you’ll have it up in no time – perfect for summer bedroom makeovers while the kids are playing outside.

• More Argos furniture deals: beds, mattresses, wardrobes – shop here

GreenPan Geneva 28cm Non Stick Stainless Steel Wok

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GreenPan Geneva 28cm Non Stick Stainless Steel Wok
£57.75 (was £77)

What’s the deal? Snap up this premium stainless steel wok with a tasty 25% discount – perfect for whipping up delicious summer stir-fries without spending hours scrubbing pans afterwards.

Why it’s a great buy: This gorgeous Geneva wok combines style with serious cooking power.

The diamond-enhanced non-stick coating allows you to use less oil for healthier summer meals, while the stainless steel construction distributes heat evenly for perfect results every time.

It’s induction-compatible too, making it ideal for any kitchen setup.

Whether you’re tossing together a quick weeknight dinner with garden veggies or impressing friends with a summer feast, this durable wok handles it all – and looks fab hanging in your kitchen when not in use.

• More Argos cookware deals: pots, pans, kitchen gadgets – shop here

McGregor 25m Compact Hose Reel with Accessories

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McGregor 25m Compact Hose Reel with Accessories
£33 (was £45)

What’s the deal? Snap up this essential garden gadget with a juicy £12 saving – perfect for keeping your garden blooming through the summer heatwave without breaking your budget.

Why it’s a great buy: This compact little hero is an absolute must-have for summer garden maintenance.

The 25m hose length is perfect for small to medium gardens, while the lightweight design makes it super easy to drag around your outdoor space.

It comes fully loaded with all the accessories you need to get watering straight away, and the clever reel system means no more tangled hose nightmares ruining your sunny afternoon.

The space-saving design won’t clutter up your shed or garage, but still packs enough power to keep your garden looking lush all summer long – even during hosepipe ban season.

• More Argos garden deals: sprinklers, watering cans, garden tools – shop here

LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle: Charms Class Set

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LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle: Charms Class Set
£14 (was £18)

What’s the deal? Snatch up this magical LEGO set with £4 off – perfect timing for keeping little wizards entertained during the summer holidays without emptying your Gringotts vault.

Why it’s a great buy: This pocket-sized piece of Hogwarts magic lets kids recreate Professor Flitwick’s famous “Wingardium Leviosa” lesson, where everything went hilariously wrong.

The set cleverly opens up for easy play and comes packed with fun details like a tiny blackboard and potion ingredients.

It includes popular minifigures to act out all those iconic classroom scenes – ideal for Harry Potter fans who want to bring a bit of wizardry to rainy summer days.

At this price, it’s a spellbinding little treat that won’t have parents reaching for a time-turner to undo the purchase.

• More Argos toy deals: LEGO, outdoor games, water toys – shop here

Shark Anti Hair Wrap & Flexology Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

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Shark Anti Hair Wrap & Flexology Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
£175 (was £250) with code ELEC30

What’s the deal? Bag this powerful Shark vacuum with a fantastic £75 discount, giving you a 30% saving on a top-rated cleaner that’ll make summer cleaning an absolute breeze.

Why it’s a great buy: This clever cordless wonder is a summer cleaning essential that makes tackling every corner of your home effortless.

The Anti-Hair Wrap technology prevents annoying tangles around the brush head (goodbye, scissors!), while the Flexology feature bends to reach under furniture, making it perfect for grabbing all that summer dust and pollen.

It effortlessly converts to a handheld for tackling stairs, sofas, and cars after those beach trips.

With its powerful suction that works brilliantly on both carpets and hard floors, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it, especially at this sizzling summer price.

• More Argos vacuum deals: Dyson, Shark, Hoover, Henry – shop here

Oral-B iO Series 2 Electric Toothbrush

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Oral-B iO Series 2 Electric Toothbrush
£45 (was £100)

What’s the deal? Snap up this premium electric toothbrush with a massive 55% discount – perfect timing to get your smile summer-ready while saving a whopping £55.

Why it’s a great buy: This clever little gadget combines gentle micro-vibrations with Oral-B’s dentist-inspired round brush head for a seriously deep clean that’s 100% more effective than manual brushing.

The smart pressure sensor glows red when you’re brushing too hard – brilliant for protecting sensitive summer gums.

With three brushing modes and a handy two-minute timer, it eliminates the guesswork of achieving a perfect smile for your summer selfies.

At less than half price, it’s the ideal time to upgrade your bathroom routine with some serious dental tech.

• More Argos bathroom deals: electric toothbrushes, hair dryers, styling tools – shop here

Habitat Celine Velvet Accent Chair

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Habitat Celine Velvet Accent Chair
£113 (was £170)

What’s the deal? Snap up this gorgeous velvet accent chair with a whopping £57 off – that’s a stylish 33% discount on a statement piece that’ll instantly elevate any room this summer.

Why it’s a great buy: This luxurious little number is the perfect summer home upgrade that won’t break your budget.

The plush velvet upholstery feels truly premium, while the high-reclined back and deep-cushioned seat make it incredibly comfortable for those lazy summer evenings with a good book or a Netflix binge.

Available in several eye-catching colours, it’s the ideal size for smaller spaces, such as bedrooms or home office corners.

The sleek, splayed metal legs add a modern touch that works with practically any decor style.

At this price, you might want to grab two for a perfectly coordinated look that’ll impress summer visitors.

• More Argos furniture deals: sofas, chairs, tables – shop here

McGregor 34cm Electric Corded Rotary Lawnmower

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McGregor 34cm Electric Corded Rotary Lawnmower
£67 (was £90)

What’s the deal? Snap up this summer lawn essential with a fantastic £23 off, giving you a neat 26% discount just in time for peak grass-growing season.

Why it’s a great buy: This nifty little mower makes light work of small to medium lawns without the faff of petrol or pricey batteries.

The powerful 1400W motor and sharp 34cm steel blade slice through even the most overgrown summer grass, while six height settings allow you to pick the perfect cut, ranging from 2-7cm.

The generous 35L grass box means less emptying and more mowing, and the whole thing is lightweight enough to push around without breaking a sweat in the summer heat.

At this price, it’s the perfect upgrade for anyone whose garden’s looking a bit wild after all this sunshine and rain.

• More Argos garden deals: trimmers, mowers, garden power tools – shop here

Habitat 2.5m Overhanging Garden Parasol

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Habitat 2.5m Overhanging Garden Parasol
£75 (was £100)

What’s the deal? Snap up this stylish garden essential with a fab £25 discount – that’s 25% off the perfect shade solution just as the summer sun really starts to heat up.

Why it’s a great buy: This clever overhanging design gives you way more flexibility than standard parasols – position it exactly where you need that cooling shade without a chunky pole getting in the way of your garden lounging.

The generous 2.5m canopy provides ample coverage for garden furniture or paddling pools, while the adjustable tilt feature allows you to track the sun throughout the day.

The sleek Habitat design looks way more expensive than its price tag suggests – ideal for instantly upgrading your outdoor space for all those summer BBQs and garden gatherings.

• More Argos garden deals: parasols, gazebos, outdoor furniture – shop here

KitchenAid 5K45SSBOB Classic Stand Mixer

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KitchenAid 5K45SSBOB Classic Stand Mixer
£350 (was £499)

What’s the deal? This iconic kitchen status symbol is now available with a massive £149 discount, offering 30% off one of the most coveted kitchen appliances around, just in time for the summer baking season.

Why it’s a great buy: Let’s be honest, this mixer isn’t just about whipping up cakes – it’s kitchen eye candy that’ll have your mates green with envy.

The classic tilt-head design gives easy access to the bowl while the powerful motor makes light work of everything from bread dough to fluffy meringues.

With 10 speed settings and that signature planetary mixing action, you’ll get perfectly mixed results without the arm ache.

The included accessories tackle most kitchen tasks, but true baking enthusiasts can expand their collection with the vast range of available attachments.

Available in several gorgeous colours, it’s the summer kitchen upgrade you’ve been waiting for.

• More Argos kitchen deals: mixers, food processors, blenders – shop here

Argos Summer Sale: Essentials under £20

It’s not all about pricy appliances and homeware in the Argos – you’ll find some great deals on cheaper items too.

• Yankee Home Inspiration Large Jar Candle, £12.75 (was £17) – buy here
• Revere Sterling Silver Teddy Bear Baby Bangle, £14.99 (was £22.99) – buy here
• Johnstones One Coat Shed and Fence, £10.89 (was £16.50) – buy here
• LEGO Valentine’s Heart Ornament, £7.80 (was £8.80) – buy here
• Opti Blue Gym Ball, £9 (was £12) – buy here
• Oral-B Pro Electric Toothbrush Heads, £15.50 (was £30) – buy here
• Argos Home 14m 3 Tier Indoor Clothes Airer, £11.99 (was £18) – buy here
• WORKPRO 6 Pieces Screwdriver Set, £8.25 (was £11) – buy here

Is Argos open over the Easter weekend?

Argos stores across England, Wales and Northern Ireland will open on Good Friday (April 18), Easter Saturday (April 19) and Easter Monday (April 21) in 2025.

However, stores which do open their doors on these dates will likely follow a reduced hours policy common across the UK.

On Easter Sunday (April 20), the retailer will close all stores in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, marking the Christian holiday.

Scotland will be the outlier with most Argos locations closing for Easter Sunday but a select few staying open – so remember to check opening times before you travel to your local store.

Does Argos do January sales?

Yes, Argos does hold January sales and the retailer gives shoppers the entire month to snag any deals which catch their eyes.

That’s right, the retailer doesn’t bring their January clearance sales to a close until January 31 giving you as much time as possible to get your money’s worth.

In 2025, Argos sliced 66% off of selected electronics and home appliances, meaning shoppers could save on anything from TVs to vacuum cleaners.

The Remington Shea Soft Hair Dryer dropped a whopping 66% in price, falling from £50 to only £17 in the January clearance sale.

Sale items were available both in-store and online with standard delivery starting at just £3.95 and same-day options available for an additional fee.

Click and collect is free for items ordered online.

Does Argos do Black Friday sales?

Yes, Argos does offer Black Friday sales and the retail giant has already begun counting down to the big day!

With November fast-approaching, the high street store has some advice for potential customers:

Be prepared: The store’s website advises shoppers to prepare for a day of smooth shopping by researching the products you want and writing up a list of back-up options in case you are too late.

Create an Argos account: To purchase an online order on the day you will need an Argos account set up, so you can get ahead of the game and make sure to register before the rush!

Shopping online: Finally, Argos recommends shoppers complete their hauls from the comfort of their own home by starting early, prioritising their lists, sticking to their budgets and being patient.

On the big day, all orders bought online before 5pm will be delivered by 10pm on the same day for just £5.95, subject to availability.

Or, customers can choose to pick up from a Sainsbury’s Collection Point near you.

Head to The Sun’s shopping section for more of the latest discounts we’ve spotted.

Spending lots of time in the garden right now? A Dunelm sun lounger has dropped in price, and it’s great for kicking back on sunny days.

Usually, the lounger would come with a £79 price tag, but the deal cuts it to £55.30.

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Amsterdam Charcoal Lounger
£55.30 (was £79)

Several weeks of consistent hot weather in the UK means Brits have had the chance to spend more time outdoors soaking up the sun.

If you’re lucky enough to own a garden, that could mean simply stepping outside your back door without having to traipse to a park.

To fully make the most of your space this summer you’ll need some furniture, and a sun lounger is ideal for relaxing.

This Dunelm lounger is a comfortable option if you’re having a drink or reading, but you can also recline it for sunbathing or even to enjoy a mid-afternoon snooze.

The removable head pillow gives some raised support for the neck, making it that extra bit more comfortable, especially if you’ll be spending a couple of hours relaxing in it.

The Amsterdam Charcoal Lounger is great for having in the garden, but it’s also versatile enough to take with you on days out.

Thanks to the lightweight mesh material and foldable design, you could pop the chair in the car to take camping or to the beach.

Dunelm had a home and garden sale that ended this weekend, but the sun lounger is one of multiple items still on sale amongst the full price garden furniture.

As it’s not part of a timed sale, it’s not clear how long the £23.50 saving will last, but as with many Dunelm deals, there is always a risk of selling out.

With a 4.7 star rating, shoppers are full of praise for the garden bargain.

One shopper wrote: ‘’Another superb garden chair.’’

‘’Comfortable, adjustable – no assembly needed and a hugely satisfying price.’’

Another was impressed with the practical features, commenting: ‘’Very comfortable reclining lounger, well constructed, with an all weather covering.’’

 ‘’Perfect for relaxing in garden – tempted to buy a second one.’’

A third felt the chair was good value, saying: ‘’Better, smarter and cheaper than the expensive ones at the garden centre.’’

However, they did note the size of the chair, describing it as: ‘’very wide so takes up more space.’’

Amsterdam Charcoal Lounger
£55.30 (was £79)

As much as Brits love the sun, a heatwave can be uncomfortable, and if the current weather’s got you searching for a quick fix, it might be worth taking a look at the best portable air conditioners.

The heat can make sleep difficult too, and investing in one of the best cooling pillows could really help with getting a solid night’s rest.

There’s also a great deal on a popular fan right now – the Shark Flexbreeze fan is now under £100, and has a handy cordless option.

B&Q has launched a £9.75 decoration that works as the perfect backdrop for your summer garden parties.

The simple but sweet ornament can turn any space into a romantic haven for a very affordable price.

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B&Q’s Artificial Grass Wall Panels – decorated with dahlia roses and hydrangeas – are the perfect choice if you want to spice up your garden or bring some warm colours into your indoor living spaces.

And at just £9.75, they’re an absolute bargain.

Each panel measures 40x60cm and contains a number of flowers tied to a grate.

The products, sold and shipped by Garden Sanctuary, aren’t stocked in B&Q stores but you can order them online.

This comes just days after shoppers raced to B&Q stores to grab the perfect budget friendly product to elevate their gardens and add instant privacy to their outdoor space.

There’s nothing worse than sitting outside with a glass of wine and a good book, only to realise that your nosy neighbour is peeking at you over the fence.

Putting up a large fence around your garden may seem like the obvious choice to keep away prying eyes, but this can be expensive – and can sometimes lead to disagreements with neighbours.

Paul CEO of plants and perennials specialists J. Parker’s revealed that one stylish way of creating privacy in your garden is by planting ornamental grasses.

He said: “Grasses can be used easily to create internal screens or hedges that flower beautifully, move in the slightest breeze, and need little care during the summer months.

“I recommend silvergrass or pampas grass to not only conceal your garden, but to introduce interesting textures.

“Their fast growth rate makes ornamental grasses ideal for privacy hedges because new plants can rapidly fill in any gaps.”

B&Q’s Stipa Pony Tails Ornamental Grass is currently priced at £10.49, making it a perfect solution for penny pinchers.

The height of the plant when you purchase it will be 30-45cm, but ornamental grass can grow up to three metres tall.

The plant is low maintenance, so won’t cause you any stress, plus its feathery plumes will elevate the look of your garden into a stylish haven.

Additionally, B&Q slashed the price of an ornament – that helps your patio seem bigger – to just £11 last week.

The Ornamental Prunus Incisa “Kojo-no-Mai” Fuji Cherry Tree is available for just £10.79.

Usually referred to as the cherry tree, this plant has a compact, rounded shape and a gently spreading habit.

This makes it suitable for planting in small gardens or areas with limited space.

Garden designer Karen McClure explained that adding plants to your patio space would help it to seem bigger.

“Use ornamental feature trees,” she advised anyone struggling with limited outdoor space.

“Multi-stem specimens in particular can be kept to a controlled height in a large feature pot, and can create a lovely focal point as well as give interest at a higher level. Be bold.”

She added that the number of plant varieties should be kept to a minimum.

“Too many varieties can create a busy and chaotic feel, whereas a simple planting palette will feel harmonised, soothing, and calm,” she said.

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The Englishman, born to a Albanian father and a British-Yemeni mother, became hooked on the sport when his mum brought him to a boxing gym aged five.

“I was doing loads of sports at the time. But when I started sparring at about nine I just fell in love with it,” he says.

“The first time I got punched I thought ‘I have to get him back’. I used to get angry when I’d get hit. You have to learn to take one and land two in a minute.”

Maca caught the eye of Matchroom because of his remarkable amateur record. He has seven titles in the junior ranks, including five national titles.

He also won a silver medal at the IBA World Junior Championships representing Albania in 2023.

While he was earmarked to be a potential Olympian, he has long had his sights on linking up with Hearn – even cornering him at an event with fellow future Matchroom fighter and heavyweight Leo Atang.

“We didn’t get ringside [tickets] back then,” Maca jokes. “We spoke to Eddie and said we wanted to sign with him one day. He said, ‘come to me when you’re a bit older, boys’. And now here we are.”

Like Maca, Atang will make his professional bow as an 18-year-old. He fights on Jack Catterall’s undercard in Manchester in July.

WE may well be seeing lower slug and snail numbers this summer thanks to colder weather in winter and the recent dry spells.

But mother nature never makes it easy for us. Instead – of course – there’s a new pest in town.

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Aphid levels have rocketed this year – and the RHS reckons it’s top of the list of gardening queries to their hotline.

There’s over 500 different species found in the UK – and can be red, yellow, black, green, brown or pink.

They feed by sucking sap from plants – and can cause severe damage – including distorted growth, sooty mould and plant viruses – and sometimes plant death.

Chelsea award winning gardener Adam Woolcott – and Webb ambassador – gave Sun Gardening some top tips on how to tackle the most common early summer pests.

APHIDS

Physically remove the aphids from the stems and leaves.
Use natural insecticidal soaps.
Blast off with water jets.
Encourage predators such as ladybirds, lacewings, and hoverflies

VINE WEEVIL

Both the adult vine weevil beetles and their larvae cause damage.
Adults — all female — chew distinctive ‘U-shaped’ notches in leaves, particularly on evergreen shrubs like rhododendrons, escallonias, and viburnums.
Underground: larvae feed on plant roots and can kill container plants like Heucheras.
Remove adults at night when they’re most active
Break the life cycle with biological controls such as nematodes (apply in spring and autumn when grubs are active) Chemical treatments are a last resort, but offer longer-term control

LILY BEETLE

The bright red beetles and their larvae are both covered in their excrement. They can strip a plant in days, affecting flowering and bulb health.

Remove beetles by hand where practical
Encourage wildlife into the garden. Birds and ground beetles will eat the larvae
Grow a resistant variety.
Tolerate some damage if you can — total eradication isn’t always necessary.

CATERPILLARS

Especially troublesome in veg patches. Cabbage white butterfly caterpillars love brassicas, while box tree caterpillars are spreading rapidly across the UK, stripping foliage as they go.

Remove the caterpillars by hand if you can and destroy any badly affected plants (if practical) to stop the infestation from spreading.
Use biological sprays like nematodes.
In some cases, hot water and a mild detergent can help. Ecover is on sale at Dunelm for £2.45.
As a last resort, chemical controls can be effective

Also in Veronica’s Column this week…

Top tips, Gardening news, and a competition to win a £250 lawnmower

NEWS KING Charles made a surprise visit to Windsor Flower Show last Saturday. Celebrities including Alex Jones and Kirsty Gallacher were at the one-day show – which had wonderful village fair vibes, vegetable and cake competitions and fantastic floral displays.

TOP TIP JUNE is actually a good time to take Hydrangea cuttings – and get your own plants for free. They’ll have produced some soft green growth – which is what you want. Choose healthy, non flowering shoots that are 10-15cm long and cut just below the node (the leaf joint). Don’t collect cuttings from plants with leaves that are turning brown. And try to collect in the morning if you can.
Remove the lower leaves – leaving just one or two at the top.
Then dip the end in rooting powder or gel – then pop it straight in a pot. You could splash out on seeding and cutting compost – but multi purpose will do – just add a bit of grit or perlite. Then keep them out of direct sunlight and keep moist. They should have rooted within about a month.

NEWS A RARE ‘sheep-eating’ South American plant has flowered in an English primary school for the first time. The Puya Chilensis, with its iconic spike pattern, is normally found in the Andes in Chile. But after it was planted 10 years ago by school horticulturalist Louise Moreton, it has sent out a 10ft spike at Wicor Primary School in Portchester, Hants. It’s called a Sheep Catcher as it would normally entangle wildlife, hold onto it – and then when the animal died – would take the nutrients. Ms Moreton said it was exciting but a worrying sign of global warming.

WIN! Keep your lawn looking its best this summer by winning a Webb Classic Self Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower worth £249.99. To enter visit www.thesun.co.uk/WEBBCOMP or write to Sun Webb competition, PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. July 5, 2025. T&Cs apply.

TOP TIP IF you want to get more flowers from your sedums (now called Hylotelephiums) and prevent them from collapsing – pinch them out around now. Pinch off around four sets of leaves down – which will make them bushier.

JOB OF THE WEEK Weeds thrive this month – keep on top of them by hoeing. Tie in sweet peas, and give your plants a good feed – liquid seaweed feed is great – and Tomorite works with nearly everything. Give agapanthus a high-potash feed every couple of weeks.

For more top tips and gardening news, follow me @biros_and_bloom

A MAJOR retailer has slashed the price of a stylish egg chair to just £99 and it is perfect to revamp your garden this summer.

Homebase has reduced the cost of its hanging egg chair to £99 down from £199.

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The moves gives customers a chance to save £100 on the popular garden item ahead of the summer.

The retailers take on the chair comes in a grey colour and is 192cm high.

It also comes with cushions and also structured so customers can sway the chair when they sit it in.

The description read: “Its soft cushions and gentle swaying motion provide optimal comfort whilst its stylish design adds a focal point to your outdoor space.

“Whether you’re reading a book or enjoying the scenic beauty, this chair offers a tranquil relaxation experience.”

If you are keen to shop the offer you can head to one of Home base’s 188 concessions within The Range stores across the UK.

You can also shop the product on www.homebase.co.uk.

The item is not available for click and collect.

The retailer went into administration last November, but was bought by CDS Superstores, which also owns The Range and Wilko.

As part of the sale, over 50 struggling stores closed.

But a number of sites were also converted into The Range stores and feature “Garden Centres by Homebase”.

You can find your nearest range which has this concession by visiting, /www.homebase.co.uk/en-uk/stores.

When shopping for garden furniture its also important to shop around to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

B&M is selling a similar product for £150 and Asda has reduced the price of one of its egg chairs from £249 to £148.

MORE GARDEN DEALS

With summer upon us, many retailers are ramping up sales on garden furniture.

Aldi is offering up a double pack of solar Marrakesh crook lanterns for just £12.99.

The German retailer has a whole range of garden buys coming to stores this Sunday.

That includes a £3.99 solar light which can give your garden an instant refresh.

The bulb comes with a crocodile clip so it can be hung around the garden.

The bulbs come in two different shapes and have 20 firefly LED lights inside to add a whimsical touch.

Online store Buy Sheds Direct has cut the cost of a shed in its summer sale.

The storage solution has had its price slashed from £459.99 to £294.99 – that’s a saving of 35%.

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6′ x 4′ Forest 4Life Double Door Pent
Wooden Shed £294.99 (was £459.99)

With most of the summer stretching out ahead of us, it’s a great time to get the garden set up and ready for frequent use, and a shed can really come in handy.

The Forest 4Life Windowless Double Door Pent Wooden Shed is on sale at Buy Sheds Direct, an online retailer that specialises in garden storage.

It’s described on the listing as ‘tough and durable’, with a timber roof design that rainwater runs off, and it’s also pressure-treated to avoid the problem of wood rot.

Thanks to the treatment, there’s a 25-year guarantee, which is great for peace of mind when you’re making a larger purchase.

Even the site’s most affordable sheds have impressive discounts, and you can now snap one up for under £300, while they can be much more costly elsewhere.

The size of shed you’d need depends on your garden and also your storage needs – for a few items like gardening tools and a lawnmower, the 6ft x 4ft size is probably big enough, without taking over your space.

It comes with a free Yale combination padlock worth £15 too, so you can start using the shed immediately without worrying about security.

There is an end date for the sale though, so you’ll need to be quick if you want to get yourself a new shed before the discounts come to a close on Monday (June 9).

You will need to put the shed together yourself, because it’s delivered as interchangeable panels which means you can choose the placement of the doors to suit the layout of your garden.

The UK’s unpredictable weather can’t be avoided, and the shed’s timber roof design allows for rainwater to run off easily.

Owning a garden shed means you can tuck away your BBQ, parasol or any garden furniture at a moment’s notice, without having to lug anything into the house.

The brand also sells tiny homes like log cabins, garden offices, and playhouses, which are ideal if you’re thinking about making the most of your outdoor space without costly house extensions or rearrangements.

6′ x 4′ Forest 4Life Double Door Pent
Wooden Shed £294.99 (was £459.99)

Keen gardeners will also appreciate the space to store tools, lawnmowers and strimmers, without worrying about bringing dirt or mud inside.

If tackling the garden is the next task on your to-do list, you might want to have read of our list of the best chainsaws, as tested by The Sun’s Gardening Editor.

Amazon’s bestselling Flymo lawnmower is also on sale right now, if yours is due a replacement.

Or if you’re staying outside until late to really make the most of your outside space, we’ve tried out the best solar lights for the garden.

Alternatively, you could head to our garden and tools hub for more deals.

LIDL is launching a new garden plant range with flowers starting from just £1.99.

The budget supermarket has unveiled a huge variety of indoor and outdoor plants to help Brits give their gardens a glow-up without breaking the bank.

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Green-fingered shoppers can snap up British bedding plants and assorted flowering plants, which are perfect for brightening up flowerbeds, hanging baskets and window boxes this summer.

The budget blooms start from just £1.99 and are already hitting the famous middle aisle, with more due to land in stores later this week – just in time for the sunny season.

From Friday, 7 June, shoppers can pick up gorgeous flowering plants that will brighten your outdoor space from late spring all the way through to autumn, meaning you’ll get plenty of bang for your buck.

But that’s not all. Lidl is also stocking large perennials for just £4.99, and Hibiscus plants for only £6.99, which will add colour and height to any patio or garden display.

These prices are incredibly competitive, considering a 9cm potted perennial plant would set you back between £10 at Dobies.

Likewise, Waitrose sell Hibiscus plants for £12.99, whilst B&Q sell them for £11.99 – making Lidl the cheapest.

The new drop includes hardy plants in vibrant shades of purple, pink, white and yellow – ideal for creating a full, colourful display with minimal effort.

And for those looking to spruce up their indoor space, Lidl also has a fresh selection of houseplants and stylish ceramic pots in-store now.

The stylish plant allows you to revamp your lounge for just £14.99.

Available across stores nationwide, these blooming great buys are expected to fly off shelves, so you’ll want to be quick.

As always, stock is limited and varies by store, so head to to your local Lidl if you want to dig into these flowery deals.

Its also worth calling up ahead to check the items you’re after are in stock.

Garden makeover

Meanwhile, Lidl isn’t the only retailer offering great garden deals this summer.

In fact, a Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden.

The retailer is also selling a budget buy guaranteed to brighten up your space.

You can also add a stylish touch to your privacy fence with a B&M buy.

Or you can pick up another summer flower favourite from B&Q right now.

Shoppers can also nab a £9.99 novelty decor buy that adds character to flowerbeds.

A £7 gardening gadget is also available from Home Bargains and is guaranteed to transform your lawn.

And Lidl customers can add a “whimsical” touch to their flowerbeds for just £3.

Or a £2 B&M buy transforms your patio into an “ambient” paradise this summer.

Its always worth comparing prices across different stores to make sure you’re bagging the best deals.

That’s where price comparison tools can come in handy.

Websites like Google Shopping let you type in a product name or model number to instantly compare prices across dozens of retailers.

HUGE plans to create the UK’s first garden city in a century are underway.

The ambitious proposals will transform unused land into a bustling green city and are slated to be finished in the next decade.

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The idea for Ebbsfleet Garden City was born in 2015 following soaring demand for more houses in Kent.

Costing almost £4 billion, the plans aim to create the first garden city in 100 years across 2,500 acres of brownfield land on the Kent Thames Riverside.

Ebbsfleet will feature a staggering 15,000 new homes with 50 new parks and open spaces.

Green and blue space will comprise 40% of the city by 2035, which is when the project is expected to be finished.

It will, according to developers, become a place for Brits to “grow a family, build a business, socialise, and enjoy a unique city-country lifestyle on the edge of London and Kent.”

The planning application is expected to be submitted later this year.

It will be made up of a collection of brownfield development sites within Dartford and Gravesham Boroughs.

Three major projects comprise the Ebbsfleet Garden City: Ebbsfleet Central, Northfleet Embankment and Community buildings and spaces.

Ebbsfleet Central will be a mixed-use residential and commercial area and will feature around 2,100 homes, of which 35 per cent are Affordable Housing.

It will also include up to 100,000 square metres of office floor space and 10,000 square metres of retail floor space.

This will be for restaurants, bars, cafes and supermarkets.

A great option for commuters, Ebbsfleet Central is just 17 minutes from Central London.

It is hoped that the revamped area will become a “magnet for inclusive economic growth” and a “destination of choice for investment and innovation”.

Ebbsfleet Development Corporation submitted the outline of the plans for the first phase of new development in Ebbsfleet Central in 2022.

This includes building new leisure facilities, a new school and more open spaces for future residents.

It also involves building the Eastgate Community Building in the middle of Springhead Park.

This will be a church and a local community centre.

It comes after Britain’s newest town – built next to a major motorway – was set to cost a whopping £2.5billion with restaurants, shops and sports facilities.

The Elms Park development, located in the north of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, was approved by local authorities yesterday.

Councils have given the go-ahead to the massive new town serving almost 9,000 people.

It will be situated on the outskirts of the Cotswolds, just off junction 10 of the M5, and will feature roughly 60 acres for employment land.

Tewkesbury Borough Council described the approval of the 4,115 homes as the “biggest decision” it had ever made.

The plans include a 25-acre business park, a hotel, shops, cafes, new schools, healthcare facilities and a transport hub.

Elms Park Consortium, led by house builders Bloor Homes and Persimmon, claims that the project will create as many as 8,000 jobs in the area.

It estimates that the development will provide 1,000 affordable homes while generating up to £300m for the local economy each year.

Rob White, agent for the applicant, said: “Approximately £25m will be spent on community infrastructure.

“It will contribute £300 million a year into the sub-regional economy, creating and supporting over 8,000 new jobs, with 30 apprenticeships a year during construction over 20 years.

“Over 4000 new homes will be built, providing for a new community of around 9,000 residents, many of whom will already be living in the area.

“Approximately £50 million pounds will be spent on providing new schools, including a secondary school and two primary schools on site.

“A sports hub containing new facilities for cricket, football, tennis, and an all-weather 3G pitch will be provided on site along with significant contributions to local rugby and hockey clubs.

“They are committed to bringing forward Elms Park as a well-designed, sustainable and healthy place where the new community can thrive.”

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Amazon shoppers are snapping up the Flymo lawnmower as the summer months begin.

The popular garden gadget has been reduced from £134.99 to £102.75, saving 24% off.

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Flymo Speedi-Mo 360C Electric
Wheeled Lawn Mower, £102.75 (was £134.99)

Amazon is often one of the cheaper places to buy home and gardening tools, essentials and branded appliances, and this deal is a prime example.

With the start of June just a day away, summer is almost here and the Flymo lawnmower has taken the top spot on Amazon’s bestselling lawnmowers list.

The garden essential is being snapped up by those with a garden lawn, especially if overgrown grass is in need of some TLC after winter.

The online deal has come at a time when Brits are starting to prioritise keeping on top of their outdoor space as the weather starts warming up this weekend.

Although I haven’t personally tested it out, given the positive feedback and that the brand is sold at some of the top home and garden retailers, it should be a reliable choice.

The lawnmower has a powerful 1500W motor which is suitable for small, medium or large-sized gardens.

Designed to be easy to use, the controls are operated on the main handle, and include a choice of five grass cutting heights between 20-60mm, so you can choose which length to opt for and ensure an even trim.

The easy set-up is mentioned often by customers, who praise how quick it is to assemble, so it’s ideal if you’re looking to put your new lawnmower to use as soon as possible.

Emptying out the grass should be straightforward too, as you simply need to 

If you’re looking for a lightweight lawnmower, this could suit you, and it’s also easy to manoeuvre using the handy foldable handle.

The lawnmower has amassed over 8,000 reviews, earning it a 4.6 star rating on Amazon, with plenty of shoppers buying it in the past month.

One shopper was full of praise for their Amazon purchase, saying: ‘’Easily put together and has the ability to cut at different lengths. Great machine and lightweight. Managed to get the perfect lines when mowing the lawn!’

Another shopper continued the positive feedback, adding: ‘’So to save money paying a gardener I bought this mower…. cheap as chips.

“Always been put off before as my old mower was so heavy. This one is a dream and I am quids in already doing it myself!

“Can’t fault it and my lawn looks great already because I do it more often and it is so easy to do.’’

While a third described it as ‘’amazing’’, adding that it was ‘’easy to put together’’, ‘’sturdy’’ and ‘’has a large collection grass box which is easy to empty’’.

Flymo Speedi-Mo 360C Electric Wheeled
Lawn Mower, £102.75 (was £134.99)

Argos also has an affordable £60 lawnmower that’s ideal for smaller gardens.

Or, if you’re looking to revamp your outdoor space in other ways, Amazon’s popular paint sprayer is great for freshening up garden fences and decking.

Still shopping around? Head to our pick of the best lawnmowers, all tried and tested by our team.

ALDI is selling a must-have garden gadget that’s just under £70 cheaper than a similar one from top brand Karcher – and it’s ideal for sprucing up your patio ahead of summer.

The FERREX Small Pressure Washer is landing as part of the supermarket’s latest Specialbuy range – and it’ll only set you back £49.99.

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Pressure washers are brilliant for blasting away dirt, moss and grime from patios, garden furniture, decking and driveways in seconds – and this bargain bit of kit really delivers.

It comes with a 1400W motor and pumps out up to 110 bar of pressure – more than enough to tackle stubborn stains outdoors.

It comes with a three meter high-pressure hose, spray gun, cleaning lance with extension and a quick-connect system for easily switching attachments.

Weighing in at just 5kg, it’s light enough for moving around the garden and easy to stash away thanks to its integrated cable and hose holder.

The gadget goes on sale from Thursday, June 5 – online and in stores – but like all Aldi Specialbuys, once they’re gone, they’re gone.

And it’s a proper steal compared to pricier rivals.

For example, the Kärcher K2 Power Control Home Pressure Washer – with similar specs – will set you back £119 at B&Q, saving you just under £70 if you opt for the Aldi version.

The Karcher washer has similar specs, including a 110 bar pressure and patio cleaning capability, but comes with a much heftier price tag.

Aldi’s Specialbuys have built a cult following for delivering top value across garden gear, kitchen gadgets and more – and this latest deal is no exception.

Remember to compare prices

Websites like Trolley and Price Spy let you compare thousands of products across different retailers to find the best price.

Price Spy even lets you see how much an item has cost over time.

A quick scan on the Google Shopping/Product tab will also bring up how much retailers are selling a certain item for too.

Previous garden sales

Recently, shoppers were also flocking to Aldi after it dropped its latest garden must-haves — with prices starting from just £2.79.

Elsewhere, B&M released a number of garden furniture pieces — including a Sienna double egg chair for £250 and a Paris 2-Seater Pod Chair also priced at £250.

Argos has also slashed prices on outdoor and DIY essentials with discounts of up to £60.

And earlier this year, Wilko dropped prices on patio sets, lounge chairs and bistro sets ahead of summer.

In February, Dunelm had a huge clearance sale with discounts of up to 75% on hundreds of items.

And most homeware stores hold sales in the summer.

Last summer, Dobbies launched a huge sale with prices slashed by up to 50% on garden furniture, plants, and homeware.

How to save money when shopping at Aldi

Unlike other major grocers, Aldi does not have a rewards or point card system but that does not mean you cannot save on your shop.

Every week the store releases a list of special buys, which are unique bargain products you find online at Aldi and in store.

The store releases a fresh range of deals every Thursday and Sunday, so be sure to check regularly to see what’s new.

Meanwhile, the store also regularly sells fruit and vegetables at highly discounted prices, as part of its ‘super six’ deal.

It also does weekly saving offers on typically pricey items such as meat and fish.

Plus, it’s worth keeping an eye out for products with red stickers on them.

These are added to items that have been reduced due to them being close to their best before date or slightly damaged.

The best time to get these reduced products is towards the end of the day, when you can get discounts worth up to 75%.

YOU can spend hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds trying to make a small garden look bigger.

But a plant expert has insisted you don’t need to shell out to give the illusion of more space, as you can get the same results with a 48p buy.

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The bargain in question is from Shein – a macrame plant hanger.

“Hanging planters are a brilliant way to add layers to a small garden without cluttering the ground,” Beards & Daisies‘ lead horticulturalist Connor Towning explained.

“Use them for trailing plants like English ivy, boston fern, or even strawberries if you want to grow fruit.”

They also work well on a balcony, as hanging planters make them “feel like little hideaway – kind of like having your own mini garden retreat in the middle of the city,” the company’s founder Jo Lambell added.

Another way to maximise a garden with limited ground space is with a vertical planting wall.

“Think herbs, trailing plants, or colourful bedding in planters attached to trellises or wooden pallets,” Jo suggested.

“It’s a high-impact look that also smells incredible when you include rosemary, mint or thyme.”

You can even try making one yourself, just by mounting an old metal shoe rack to a wall.

Tilt it, and make sure it’s properly secured so that you can sit small potted plants on it at an angle – creating an “eye-catching, space-saving solution that turns clutter into a garden feature”.

It’s also worth looking at furniture with a dual purpose – such as a planter that doubles as a storage bench – to “maximise functionality while keeping your garden clutter-free”.

Make the most of the corners in your garden too.

You can turn one into a mini wildflower garden, using seeds such as a mix of cornflowers, poppies and cosmos.

“Sowing a small patch of wildflower seeds in a deep planter can support bees and butterflies,” Connor added.

“It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do for wildlife, and it adds a beautiful texture.”

Another option is to create a corner seating area – which you can do for less with reclaimed wooden pallets.

Add some weatherproof cushions to make a “snug lounge area that’s both budget-friendly and space-efficient”.

How To Make Your Small Garden Look Bigger

Garden design expert Fiona Jenkins from MyJobQuote.co.uk has created a guide on how to make your small garden look larger.

Add shelves – for additional storage and place to hold more plants. 

Use foldaway furniture – to take up less space when not in use. 

Add privacy – with fencing, trellis, brick walls or hedging. 

Add a water feature – to make your garden seem like a natural retreat. 

Go bright – when choosing plants, opt for bold colours to make the space pop. 

Use large planters – to get more plants in less space. 

Plant vertically – add plants upwards to make your garden seem fuller, and therefore, bigger.

Use blue flowers at the edges – blue flowers and plants recede into the distance and make the garden appear bigger. 

Grow tall plants – it’s better to think big when it comes to a small garden.   

Keep clutter a minimum – as it can give the illusion of less space than there actually is.

Lastly, there are some other illusions you can create with light and space, such as placing a mirror on a wall or fence to “visually double” the space.

Consider planting pale coloured flowers and plants such as white petunias, pale pink geraniums, or daisies to reflect light and make the space look bigger.

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IF you’re prepping your outdoor area for the relaxing summer ahead, a budget buy can level it up.

Lidl shoppers can elevate their garden or balcony’s privacy with this simple addition.

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Whether you’re lying back and soaking up the sun or enjoying a meal al fresco, you don’t want to feel as though you’re on display to everyone in your neighbourhood.

If your outdoor area is a little too exposed for your liking, there’s no need to write it off.

You can now shield yourself from nosy neighbours with this colourful item.

As well as shielding you from prying eyes, this Lidl buy can also help to brighten up your garden.

Shoppers can pick up a Large Hanging Planter for just £6.99 from the middle aisle.

Customers can “choose from a wide range of colours to brighten up their outdoor space”.

According to the experts at Monrovia, staggering your hanging planters at different levels can help to create a natural separation from the outside world.

And it does so without adding an unsightly privacy fence or screen to your space.

“It creates the sense of separation without shouting ‘keep out,'” they explained.

But the gardening pros highlighted the importance of taking care of your planters.

They recommended watering your natural barrier regularly, especially in the hot weather.

Or you can opt for a more classic privacy product to shield your garden from public view.

Amazon also has a £14 privacy buy that is described as “perfect” for summer.

Another privacy fence is also available from Amazon, for just £5.

B&Q has an affordable privacy fence currently on sale, and you can put it up yourself.

And a £10 B&M product adds inches to your fence, elevating your garden’s privacy.

You can also add a stylish touch to your privacy fence with another B&M buy.

A £3 buy from B&M is can also help to add privacy to your garden this summer.

And its not just fences that can help give you privacy in your garden, one B&M item can help shield you from nosy neighbours and the sun.

Meanwhile, a Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden.

Another item from the bargain retailer is perfect for attracting birds to your space.

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SHOPPING experts have revealed when is the ideal time to stock up on major garden essentials to make huge savings.

Three of the key items should be bought this month in order to make the biggest savings.

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Boffins at comparison site Idealo have done the hard work for us and worked out that shoppers could save £183.84 if they purchase a gazebo this month, rather than in November, when they are at its worst price.

One shopper recently bragged about picking up a “huge” gazebo from her local Morrisons for just £20.

May is also your month for hedge trimmer shopping and you could save £12.80 as opposed to buying in August as their most expensive month.

As most parents will know, tearing kids away from screens can sometimes be a challenge, making garden toys a lifeline in the summer months.

If you’re after something that will keep your little ones entertained for hours, what about the trusty pogo stick?

May is the best month to pick one up, creating a saving of £1.24 rather than in December.

For your other green-fingered needs, June has been officially crowned as the cheapest month of the year to buy garden bits in the UK, with the greatest deals on offer.

While June is ideal, buying garden goodies any time between the end of May and August is also promised to save you cash.

Idealo found that savings of up to £649 can be made by buying each item at the right time.

Katy Phillips, senior brand and communications manager at idealo tells The Sun: “Our data shows that a little patience can go a long way when it comes to saving money on garden essentials this year.

“Holding off until the right month could save shoppers hundreds of pounds on big-ticket items like sun loungers, tables and fire pits.

“We’d always recommend comparing prices across multiple retailers before committing to a purchase. With a bit of planning, and by using apps with tools like price alerts, you can enjoy your garden for less and make your money stretch further this summer.”

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How to save money on garden furniture

Opting to buy your new garden furniture or items on sale could save you a lot of money.

Most retailers start discounting garden items after summer and will run promotions over the winter, but be aware stock can be far more limited during this time.

Retailers will start reintroducing more to their garden ranges during spring and may run limited promotions over bank holidays, for example.

You are unlikely to get a great deal just before or in the height of summer, but some retailers offer mid-summer clearance sales to get rid of old stock, so keep an eye out.

Remember to always shop around when making a big purchase, as even if one store has a sale on, you may be able to get a better deal elsewhere.

You can use websites like Price Spy to compare the prices of items across multiple retailers and see how the prices have changed over time.

Remember, you may not need to buy you furniture – you could save a fortune by up-cycling old items instead.

Giving dirty pieces a good wash and a lick of fresh paint can make them look brand new.

You can also pick up perfectly good items second-hand.

Try platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay to see if anyone near you is getting rid of old items – you may even be able to pick them up for free.

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This quirky, endearing garden is one of the last remnants of old Palm Springs, when there was time to watch little birds flit fearlessly among the thorns, marvel at a palm that grows sideways about 8 feet before it grows up and listen spellbound to Moorten’s wonderful and seemingly endless stories.

The garden itself is small — roughly an acre of mature, artfully arranged cactuses and desert plants along shady dirt paths with hand-lettered signs, decaying desert artifacts and the famous “cactarium,” a word invented by Moorten’s mother, Patricia, who with his father, Chester “Slim” Moorten, began expanding the garden, established in 1938, after they bought the property in 1955.

The cactarium, by the way, is a small weathered Quonset hut stuffed with weird and rare cactuses — some of which wind along the ground like snakes or grow upside down from their pot like a prickly stalactite.

There’s a nursery here too, for people who want to take some plants home. This is a garden visitors can easily traverse in a few minutes, but honestly you’ll want to give yourself time to sit on a bench, browse in the nursery, and, if he’s around, listen to at least a few of Moorten’s stories about old Palm Springs and his remarkable parents. His father, for instance, was a logger as a teenager, who hitchhiked to Hollywood in the 1920s to become a Keystone Kop, then moved to the desert to fight off tuberculosis where he discovered that raising cactus paid better than gold mining — especially when Walt Disney asked him to suggest plants for “a little amusement park” he was creating in Anaheim, and he ended up supplying the plants for Frontier Land.

Moorten, 82, was an only child, and he still talks about his parents as though they’ll walk around the corner at any moment. “I was born with stickers in my butt,” he says on the website, and enough memories and stories to make this endearing garden glow.

Hours: Depends on the season. Between Oct. 1 and May 31, the garden is open every day but Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In the summer, June 1-Sept. 30, when the heat is at its fiercest, the garden is open Fridays through Sundays only, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Admission: $7 adults and seniors; $5 veterans, $3 children 5-12. Children under 5 enter free.

Food: No food is sold at the garden, but there is a drinking fountain and they sell bottled water at the entrance. There are tables where visitors can bring prepared food into the garden to eat.

Other: There are restrooms at the back of the garden. The garden trails are compact dirt and wide enough to accommodate wheel chairs, but the cactarium’s narrow aisles and steps are not wheelchair-accessible.

A HOMEOWNER was left stunned after her neighbour took matters into their own hands with their DIY project.

She took to Reddit to explain what happened, and people were left divided on it all.

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The problem started when her neighbours decided to add a small building to the back of their garden.

Initially, the project made no difference to the homeowner and she thought nothing of it.

That is until she came home from work one day to discover they had replaced their shared fence for their benefit.

It turned out the small outbuilding had a small window on the wall next to the shared fence, but because of the normal fence panels no light could get into the window.

That’s when the neighbours decided to take matters into their own hands.

The homeowner explained: “I came home from work today and this is how the fence looks, the neighbour has had a building built at the bottom of the garden and a window on the building just the other side of that fence.

“I understand it’s to allow light to pass through the window bit it looks white and why should my privacy be invaded for their benefit?”

Alongside the post, the homeowner shared a picture of the new fence, which had large holes in the design to allow light through.

However, as well as letting light into her neighbour’s new space, the new fence allowed them to peek right into her garden.

After sharing the post on Reddit users were left divided over how the homeowner should go about the problem.

One said: “That is certainly one of the most moronic things I’ve ever seen.”

Meanwhile, a second suggested adding plants to the area to solve the problem.

They explained: “You can buy laurel trees that are already a couple of metres high to give a hedge a head start.

“This is what I did last year. I planted 10 two metre high laurels last spring and they are doing really well.”

And while someone else suggested adding another shed on their side of the fence, another person had an easier plan.

They said: “Instead of a shed, just put two garden chairs directly facing it, then sit there and look in through their window.

“Privacy works both ways and when they don’t have it, they will want it back.”

IF you’re setting your patio up ahead of the summer, B&M may have just the thing to level up your space.

This decor buy will help turn your garden into a paradise without breaking the budget.

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From hosting barbecues to enjoying relaxing evenings in the setting sun, who doesn’t plan to make the most of the good weather this summer?

And adding an extra touch to your outdoor set up can help create a cosy atmosphere into the night.

B&M is currently selling outdoor candles for just £2, reduced from £4.

These outdoor candles come in two seaside-themed shapes: shell and starfish.

“This shaped candle will make a beautiful addition to your garden,” the product description reads.

Manufacturers added that this item is “perfect for some ambient outdoor lighting”.

It can help turn your outdoor space into a “coastal paradise” this summer.

After transforming her own patio, one woman shared her top tips on Maison de Cinq.

She recommended placing “candles on the table for added ambience”.

Certain outdoor candles also have a practical purpose in your garden during the summer.

You can pick up a £3 citronella candle for repelling pests from Home Bargains.

And one Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden.

Another item from the bargain retailer is perfect for attracting birds to your space.

You can also pick up a B&Q buy that creates a “tranquil atmosphere” in your garden.

A £3 garden decoration from Aldi that turns your outdoor space into a “lush oasis”.

And the Aldi outdoor patio furniture, including a rattan effect corner sofa.

Home Bargains also has a £5 decor buy that turns your patio into an “outdoor living room”.

Plus, a 79p Home Bargains item that will instantly level up your outdoor space.

A £10 B&M product adds inches to your fence, elevating your garden’s privacy.

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