Gardening

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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Monty Don was on hand to give viewers at home tips on how to harvest elephant garlic, but some BBC Gardeners’ World fans were left ‘in shock’ at the results

Gardeners’ World fans were in for a treat as the show aired on Thursday, a day ahead of its usual schedule, to make way for the Glastonbury Festival coverage. In the latest episode, Monty Don demonstrated how to harvest elephant garlic, explaining to viewers that despite its name, it’s actually a type of leek and boasts a milder flavour than traditional garlic.

The green-fingered guru, aged 69, approached a bed of the oversized plant, declaring it was ripe for picking. He advised BBC viewers to always use a fork when lifting the garlic to preserve the roots, essential for storage, reports the Express.

Monty shared further advice, noting, “It stores very well, it’s easier to use, and it doesn’t dominate in the way that garlic can do.”

However, the episode took a turn when he discovered some of the regular garlic bulbs had succumbed to rot. He remarked, “That’s no good. Interesting.”

Upon unearthing another spoiled clove, Monty described it as “completely horrible” and added “Look how that’s rotted. The cloves are in there, but I don’t think they would keep.”

Puzzled by the unexpected decay, Monty wondered: “No, no, no. What I am asking myself is why this garlic from a very reputable supplier, for the first time ever since I’ve grown garlic, is no good. It’s rotting. It’s difficult to see if there’s a virus or a fungal problem.

“But the elephant garlic in the same bedding and in the same growing conditions is untouchable.”

Monty revealed his decision to avoid planting in that particular garden bed for the next three years after showing his garlic crops succumbing to rot.

The response from viewers watching at home was swift, with several taking to X to express their reactions to Monty’s gardening mishap.

One viewer sympathised on Twitter, “Oh a garlic fail for @TheMontyDon Disaster! #GardenersWorld.”

Another joined in with a sigh, “Disappointing garlic.”

A third shared their concern, tweeting “That was worrying about @TheMontyDon’s garlic #GardenersWorld.”

A fourth found humour in the situation, jokingly tweeting “Maybe a vampire is buried under that bed. #gardenersworld.”

Gardeners’ World is available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Once upon a time, sports fans wanted freedom of choice. Why pay for dozens — or perhaps hundreds — of television channels when all you wanted to do was to see your favorite teams play?

The cable era is in its sunset. Streaming is all the rage. No longer need you pay for channels that feature news, movies, cooking and gardening in order to watch the home team.

For sports fans, this has become an expensive mess, too.

The Dodgers require one subscription. The Lakers require another. The Angels, Kings and Clippers require another. The Galaxy and LAFC require another. The Ducks require another — although theirs is free for now.

Truth be told, the Dodgers and Lakers run L.A. The most valuable sports broadcasting property in town could be one that carries the Dodgers and Lakers.

For many fans in Los Angeles, that might represent freedom of choice: the one and only must-have sports subscription.

Could that future — one broadcast channel and one streaming app for the Dodgers and Lakers — become reality now that Mark Walter, the controlling owner of the Dodgers, is the new controlling owner of the Lakers? Walter hasn’t yet talked publicly about the Lakers deal, so we floated the idea by sports business insiders.

The Lakers are on Spectrum SportsNet. The Dodgers are on SportsNet LA. Who owns those channels?

Charter Communications, the parent company of Spectrum, owns SportsNet. The Dodgers, through an affiliated company, own SportsNet LA, although Charter operates it and pays the team a rights fee every year, just as it does with the Lakers.

Can Charter walk away from the Lakers deal because of the ownership change?

No.

Could Walter buy out Charter and put the Dodgers and Lakers on the same channel?

In theory, yes. Charter probably would give him the Lakers’ channel for free.

In reality? That appears unlikely any time soon. Walter didn’t get to be a billionaire by turning down half a billion dollars every year.

Go on.

When Charter’s predecessor, Time Warner Cable, launched the channels for the Lakers in 2012 and the Dodgers in 2014, cable and satellite channels were the way most fans watched their home teams. And, because cable and satellite packages required subscribers to pay for 100 channels even if they only watched five, those cooking and gardening enthusiasts helped enrich all those teams.

Fast forward to today: Nielsen reported that in May — for the first time — more Americans watched television via streaming than via broadcast and cable combined. This so-called “cord cutting” has turned the ownership of most sports channels from an asset to a liability, and many operators have either gone out of business or forced teams to take nine-figure hits to their rights fees.

What does this have to do with whether I can watch the Dodgers and Lakers on one channel?

The Dodgers’ channel and the Lakers’ channel each lose money. Walter would choose between acquiring a money-losing Lakers channel or keeping intact the two Charter deals that pay the Dodgers and Lakers more than $500 million combined each year. No team in baseball makes as much money from local television as the Dodgers, and no team in basketball makes as much money from local television as the Lakers.

The Lakers’ deal runs through 2032. The Dodgers’ deal runs through 2038.

Why are those dates important?

While other teams are experimenting with various combinations of cable, satellite, streaming and even free TV, the Lakers and Dodgers can cash in on guaranteed income and let those other teams be the guinea pigs for learning what works and what does not work in the new media world.

Major League Baseball would like to sell a national streaming package in 2028 — one spot to watch your team from wherever you are, with no blackouts — and the NBA figures to explore that option, too. That gives the Dodgers and Lakers a fairly long runway to see what might be best for them, including whether to retain their streaming rights or contribute them to a league package — and what they would require in order to do so.

Might a joint Dodgers-Lakers channel be a long-term solution?

It could be. With the NBA joining MLB in making postseason broadcasts entirely national, the calendar would align nicely: April to September for the Dodgers, October to April for the Lakers. Behind the scenes, one staff could largely replace two.

The time for the single-team sports channel has come and largely gone. The economics are poor, and the enthusiasm for 24-7, all-access coverage of one team has dissipated into the reality that most fans just want to watch the game.

How about Walter adding teams?

Nothing is impossible. Ted Leonsis, who owns the NHL’s Washington Capitals, NBA’s Washington Wizards and WNBA’s Washington Mystics, says the key to sports success could be an ownership bundle: own multiple teams, own the venues in which they play and own the platforms on which fans view their games.

Walter’s investments now include the Dodgers, Lakers and Sparks. SportsNet also airs the Sparks.

In 2012, Walter and his partners looked into buying AEG, which owns the Kings, the Galaxy and Crypto.comArena. AEG owner Philip Anschutz opted not to sell then, but Walter could renew that pursuit and, if successful, would control the two venues and four teams that call downtown L.A. home.

A WOMAN has been left fuming after claiming her ‘psycho’ neighbour chopped down her garden’s trees without permission.

In a video, she shared the before and after of her outdoor space, with her garden looking like a mess after the massacre. 

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On her account, she shared the entire story – and people are split in the comments. 

She claimed: “About two months ago, our neighbor asked us to remove our trees because flowers were falling into his yard. 

“Of course I felt terrible but we said no, because I loved those trees for many reasons. “However, we immediately had them professionally cut back (which we do every other year, per our landscaper’s recommendation). He lost it. 

“He sent a bunch of unhinged messages to my husband but we thought it had blown over after we had the trees cut back and the flowers stopped blooming.

“Fast forward to this past weekend, while we weren’t home (which he knew), they were mysteriously chopped down. Every last one. 

“They were cut aggressively and conveniently in a way that ensured nothing fell into his yard.”

She shared how she had asked neighbours if they had seen what happened – and word got back to the person they suspect did it. 

The woman claims he then started sending her husband “threatening messages” filled with “profanity and intimidation.”

The social media user said she wasn’t sharing the story for sympathy but because she felt “heartbroken”. 

She said she has filed a police report and is trying to get justice over the incident.

People were quick to tune in on the tree debacle, with one saying: “Huge trees are a pain in a garden but you cannot just go in neighbors garden and cut them down!”

Another also supported her saying: “What type of psycho goes to another person’s yard and cuts down their trees!!!! 

“It’s truly insane. I’m sorry this was done to you.”

However, some people took the neighbour’s side.

One wrote: “Why do people plant their trees so close to the border?”

Another added: “understand your feelings but anything hanging over his yard I presume he can legally cut back?”

What are your rights if a neighbour’s tree hangs into your garden?

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In order to prevent overhanging branches turning into furious rows between neighbours, Natalie Welsh, head of property at HCB Widdows Mason shared what your rights are in this tricky situation.

“It can be really frustrating when branches or plants from your neighbour’s garden start to spill over into your space”, she said.
“In England and Wales, you’re allowed to cut back any branches that cross onto your property, but only up to the boundary line.

“Just make sure you don’t step onto your neighbour’s land or damage the tree itself.”

When trimming a tree back, you are not allowed to lean into your neighbour’s garden, since that can be considered trespassing.

Natalie advised that before taking any drastic action, it’s best to have a friendly chat with your neighbour first.

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.

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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A new patio in the UK typically costs between £80-£150 per square meter, but it depends on the materials and layout.

So a typical homeowner could end up paying a few hundred, to thousands to get a new one.

Amy on Facebook didn’t have that kind of money to sort her patio out.

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Instead, she came up with a genius idea to transform her wonky slabs, into an area she would love.

Posting in the Facebook group Garden Makeover Ideas On A Budget, she said: “On a very tight budget, I couldn’t stretch to funding a new patio.

“So, last year, I bought some ground covering seeds and planted them between some of my wonky pavers.

“I’m thrilled with how they now look but, the amount of bees that have been collecting the nectar from them is incredible. I’m so pleased.”

She added a photograph of the results, showing her wonky patio slabs covered with gorgeous purple, white and blue flowers.

As for what flowers she sowed, replying to a comment, Amy said: “Mixed ground cover,” and said it “will bring new life to your garden/patio”.

She “added a little sand to the compost” which she was advised to do so by her local garden centre because “the sand stabilises the wonky pavers”.

Her post has received 11,000 likes so far and hundreds of comments.

One replied: “I absolutely love this idea! I have a horrible concrete area that I cover with benches and pots! Also have an old paved area all sunken forever taking out the weeds in between! Thank you for the great idea x.”

Someone else wrote: “I think that looks lovely & far nicer than a new boring patio, it looks how nature would have intended it to look with plants tumbling out if cracks & crevices.”

One comment read: “It looks so pretty! Love your solution and how nice that it’s attracted pollinators too.”

Another said they make a great replacement for pesky weeds: “Oh I love this. I’m going to pulled out those weeds and put in seeds.”

Someone else was keen to know if any weeds grew amongst her flowers. They asked: “That looks lovely. Do you have any problems with weeds pushing through too?”

Amy replied: “I have had a couple yes, but by and large, the flowers are winning the ‘cosy’ and limited space.”

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How to grow flowers between your patio slabs

1. Clean the area

Remove any weeds or debris from the cracks between your patio slabs. A weeding tool or a stiff brush can help with this. 

Make sure the holes are at least six inches deep to help roots develop.

2. Fill with soil and compost

Use a mix of soil and compost to fill the cracks.

3. Choose your plants

Opt for low-growing, spreading plants that can tolerate foot traffic. 

Some good choices are: thyme, chamomile, creeping speedwell, dwarf mondo grass, daisies.

4. Plant

If using seeds, mix them with a little compost and sand and push them into the cracks. 

For plug plants, carefully remove and gently plant them into the cracks. Fill any surrounding gaps with compost.

5. Water

Water the seeds thoroughly and continue to water regularly, especially during dry spells, until the plants are established. 

June gardening jobs

The Sun’s Gardening Editor, Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you should take this month.

Stake out leggy perennials

With all the dramatic weather we’ve been having, it’s definitely time to stake out your leggy perennials (the ones that come back every year). Heavy rain and growth spurts, can make them collapse and flop.

Picking out the slugs and snails

Hopefully as we move into summer they  will do less damage as the plants get bigger.  The best way is still to go out at night with a head torch to find them. 

Pick elderflower heads

You can use them to make your own cordial, or add to cakes, champagne or even fry them in batter. 

Get on top of weeds

It’s around now that weeds really ramp up in the garden, so keep on top of them with hoe-ing – or just the traditional ‘on your knees with a hand fork’. Try and avoid chemicals – remember weeds are just plants in the wrong place. 

Up the mowing

You’ll need to mow your lawn weekly now – if you’ve got time, weed it beforehand as once you mow you chop off the leaves and its harder to see them. 

Check on your tomatoes

Your tomato plants will need attention – water, feed and regularly and pinch out the sideshoots. 

Chelsea Chop

There’s still time for the Chelsea Chop – plants like Rudbeckia’s, Asters, Penstemons, Sedums and other perennials can be cut back by a third to help them get a bit more bushy, and prolong the flowering period.

Sort out your tulips

If you can be bothered and have space – lift and story your tulip  bulbs to ensure colour next Spring. 

Deadheading your roses

Take them down to the first set of healthy leaves – which will ensure more flowers for longer. 

Enjoy your space

Take some time to sit and enjoy your garden or outside space – it’s great for your mental health. Even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference. 

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

JUNE is a popular time for people to move home, hopeful of being settled before the new school term.

But making sure you get the most out of a move can be stressful.

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However, property expert Liv Conlon – who stages homes for a living – has shared her essential 10 tips for boosting value.

And some cost just pennies but can had hundreds to the asking price.

Liv, 26, is the CEO of multi-award-winning ThePropertyStagers.co.uk, which furnishes more than 400 homes a year, as well as a StagerBoss – a coaching business teaching other women how to do the same.

The Scots mum, who was brought up in Glasgow and now lives in Marbella with son Cash and mum Ali, says: “From posh pillows to hotel-style bedding, the right styling can make buyers fall in love and nudge them above the asking price.

“So before you stick up the For Sale sign, check out these smart, simple ways to get buyers battling to pay more than the asking price.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

A buyer decides in 10 seconds whether they are going to buy your home or not – so your entrance and hallway need to make a good first impression.

Make it warm and welcoming. Buy a new door mat that’s only used for viewings, with no dirty shoe marks, and place two identical plants at either side of the door – which is either clean, new or given a lick of paint. Opt for colours such as black or navy blue so it looks ‘classy’, rather than something more ‘out there’.

Clear away the clutter, and lose the smelly shoes and dumped coats.

LIVING ROOM VISION

The living room is the heart of the home – and buyers know it. It’s where they picture relaxing with a glass of wine, watching TV, or hosting friends.

Get this room wrong and you risk turning off even the most interested buyer. Make it feel spacious but not sterile, styled but still homely.

Pull sofas away from the walls to create cosy conversation zones, and use a large rug to anchor the space – this helps define it and adds warmth.

Then ditch harsh overhead lights and go for soft lamps, layered lighting and oversized accessories to give a sense of luxury. Use neutral tones for your sofa and walls, then add depth with textured throws, scatter cushions and artwork.

GO BIG

Tiny trinkets and dinky lamps really don’t cut it when you’re trying to wow a buyer. One of the biggest styling mistakes sellers make is going too small with their accessories – it makes your home look underwhelming.

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If you want to create that lux, showhome feel, size matters. Think
big and bold. Oversized lamps on side tables make a dramatic statement, especially when paired with plush sofas or layered cushions.

Chunky candlesticks, large framed art or statement vases add instant impact – and make the space feel styled, not stuffed.

DON’T LOO-SE OUT

Bathrooms are an important room but are often forgotten about when it comes to staging. The key to success with styling this room is to compliment not clutter.

You can do this by adding simple styling accessories, layers and textures. Consider pops of colour in your accessories, such as a soap dispenser or a toothbrush holder, which you can pick up for as little as £3 in places like Home Bargains. This draws the eye and helps your images jump off the page.

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Add textures with towels and bath mats, but also through the type of glass or ceramic in your accessories. Small touches can have a big impact.

RIGHT RUG

Rugs are the unsung heroes of home staging – they define spaces, add texture and instantly warm up any room. In large, open-plan layouts, rugs create natural boundaries between living,
dining and kitchen zones, making the space feel organised and inviting.

Don’t overlook the ‘forgotten’ spaces – utility rooms, hallways or entryways can be transformed with a well-chosen rug to feel cosy and purposeful.

Rugs can tie together the design elements, especially through colour and texture, in a space while providing a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

They can also significantly reduce noise levels by absorbing sound – a quieter home is always more appealing to buyers.

ALL WHITE

Five-star hotels use crisp, white bedding for a reason, as it exudes luxury and cleanliness, and it immediately puts a viewer at ease.

Patterned or busy linens can feel cluttered and overly personal, turning off potential buyers. Investing in high-quality, bright white sheets creates a serene, spa-like oasis that invites buyers to imagine themselves unwinding there.

The clean, neutral backdrop also lets you introduce pops of colour and texture with cushions and throws – easy updates that make the room feel stylish without overwhelming the senses.

GET DRESSED

Layering is the secret to making your home feel styled, warm and high-end – without overdoing it.

In the bedroom, start with white sheets, then double up on duvets: one laid flat, the second folded neatly at the end for a boutique hotel look. Use feather insert cushions -not flat polyfills – and build texture with velvet throws, faux fur or quilted finishes.

In the living room, mix cushion sizes and textures on your sofa – linen, boucle, chunky knit – to add depth. Coffee tables and
sideboards should be styled too: think a stack of hardback books, a sculptural candle and one standout vase. Keep it intentional, not cluttered.

STAR OF THE SHOW

Not much beats getting ready at a dressing table. The feeling of space and time – rather than catching a quick glimpse in the closet mirror before rushing out the front door.

Create that same feeling in your bedroom by setting up a designated space in your bedroom to put on make-up and style your hair.

This can be a dual purpose area that could also double up as a work from home space too. To add real luxury, add a table standing mirror, and opt for a mirrored dressing table if your budget allows.

CLEAR OFF

Nothing puts buyers off faster than clutter. It makes rooms feel smaller and chaotic. When people view your home, they’re not just looking at the space – they’re imagining their life in it.

That’s hard to do if every surface is piled high with post, toys or toiletries. Start by stripping back.

Clear kitchen worktops, bedside tables and bathroom counters. Invest in clever storage: ottomans with lift-up lids, under-bed boxes and baskets for toys or blankets.

Hide away anything personal or bulky. Less stuff equals more space.

MIRROR IMAGE

Create symmetry in your rooms with matching bedside tables on either side of the bed. Not only does this add practicality and storage, but it instantly makes the room feel more polished.

Then, top each table with oversized, identical lamps – these create drama and a high-end vibe without breaking the bank.

Symmetry tricks the eye into seeing order and elegance, making your
bedroom feel like a five-star retreat buyers won’t forget.

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IF your bins are kicking up a nasty smell, fear not, you’ve come to the right place.

With summer right around the corner, the warm weather can cause your bins to emit ghastly, unwanted odours.

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But to stop your dirty recycling from marinating in the heat and causing your neighbours to squirm, experts have revealed a variety of simple tips and tricks to keep your bins fresh all summer long.

According to Michael Bogoyavlenskiy, CEO of Cleaning Express, keeping your bins out of direct sunlight can help prevent foul smells.

And while it’s important to empty your bin every couple of days and make sure to dispose of anything “particularly pungent”, there’s also a variety of cleaning hacks that can banish grim smells.

On a mission to ensure my recycling bin smells fresh this season, I, Abby Wilson, tested three simple hacks. 

You probably already have at least two of these buys in your cupboards already, but don’t worry if your purse is feeling tighter than ever before, as all three are super affordable.

While the cheapest hack will cost you just 49p, your bin will be so clean you’ll be able to see your reflection thanks to a 55p trick. 

Wash this 

According to those at Busy Bins, a simple mixture of washing-up liquid and warm water will do the trick to banish seriously bad stenches from your bin.

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So, I got my Marigolds on and dived headfirst into the bin – and yes, it was as grim as you could imagine.

In between holding back gags and wiping my watering eyes, I scrubbed the interior of the recycling bin with the purse-friendly two-ingredient solution. 

I then gave the bin a quick rinse with a hose and I have to say, it looked pretty good.

Whilst it wasn’t great at getting rid of the tough stains and did require quite a bit of elbow grease (far more than I’d have hoped), it definitely cut through the strong smells.

It looked pretty good too and thanks to this cheap trick, your bins are sure to shine in no time.

While I used proper Fairy Liquid, if you’re on a budget and are looking to pocket pennies where possible, you’ll be thrilled to know that you can nab cheaper dish soap from just 49p from Savers.

Rating: 3/5 

Powerful paste 

After a couple of weeks, it appeared that my bin had gone back to its old ways and was still looking a bit grim.

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So I searched for something a bit stronger and bought myself a tub of The Pink Stuff, which you’ll find for only £1.50 from Poundland, Sainsbury’s and Dunelm. 

While this isn’t something I’ve heard many experts talk about when it comes to bin cleaning, I figured the multi-purpose paste which has been hailed as a “miracle” product that is said to be “tough on stains”, could do the trick.

But after literally five seconds of scrubbing, I was already starting to regret my decision.

Yes, this thick paste is super versatile, but it made a total mess on my bin.

The household items you’re not cleaning often enough

IF you want to ensure your home is squeaky clean, you’ll need to listen up. Below are the household items you’re forgetting to clean, and how to get them sparkling…

Remote Controls: Wipe with a disinfectant cloth. Use a cotton bud for crevices.

Light Switches: Wipe with a disinfectant wipe. Use a mild soap solution for tough stains.

Door Handles: Clean with an antibacterial spray. Wipe down regularly.

Underneath and Behind Appliances: Vacuum or sweep regularly. Mop with a suitable cleaner.

Shower Curtains and Liners: Wash in the washing machine. Use a bleach solution for stubborn mildew.

Kitchen Sponges and Dishcloths: Microwave damp sponges for one minute. Wash dishcloths in the washing machine.

Computer Keyboards and Mice: Use compressed air to remove debris. Wipe with a disinfectant wipe.

It was much more hassle than it was worth and there was far too much faff involved with getting rid of the white residue from my bin.

While I love using this product throughout my home, on my grubby oven and kitchen sink, I’m definitely not sold on using it to clean my bin.

Also, the scent is very faint, so it didn’t work as well as I’d hoped to keep my bin smelling fresh. 

Rating: 2/5 

Seriously strong 

Disappointed with the mess The Pink Stuff made, not only on my bin but all over me too, I reached for a household hero I knew wouldn’t let me down.

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Not only do I use bleach on my loos, but I imagined it would work well on my bin too.

According to the Wheelie Bin Cleaning Service, using bleach, which you can buy for just 55p from Tesco, is a great way to effectively disinfect a bin.

By bin was left so clean I could even see my reflection in it

Abby Wilson

The pros explained that bleach is a “strong cleaner” that “kills many bacteria, viruses, and fungi”, whilst working to “keep bins clean and fresh.”

Not only this, but the experts also recognised that it will “break down tough stains, grease and grime in bins”, whilst also “making bins look new and clean again.”

Eager to let the powerful product do its work, I diluted some bleach with water and threw the solution over the inside and outside of my recycling bin.

I then grabbed a long brush to spread the solution and left it to work for a few minutes.

Moments later, I thoroughly rinsed the bin to get rid of any residue, which is highly important when using bleach as it can be harmful to the environment and wildlife. 

As someone who would buy a bleach scented candle if it was available, I was overjoyed with the squeaky clean scent it left behind. 

Not only was it a cheap cleaning solution, but it definitely smelt the best out of the bunch too. 

But that wasn’t all – my bin was left so clean (definitely the cleanest it has EVER looked), I could even see my reflection in it – yes, you heard that correctly.

I highly doubt I’ll be popping outside and peering at my bin to check that my make-up and hair look decent, but if you really want your bins to shine, bleach may just be the thing for you. 

Although it left me very impressed, the experts recommend that bleach should not be used for routine cleaning of bins due to environmental concerns and the damage it can do to plastic over time. 

I’ll definitely do this trick again, but for those eager to give it a try, make sure you switch up your cleaning methods, dilute it properly before us and always wear gloves. 

Rating: 4/5 

Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club

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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.

SLUGS are the bane of every gardener’s life.

But Britain’s favourite gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh has one method that he swears by for combating the slimy slitherers.

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Writing in County Life, the 76-year-old spoke about his lifelong battle with the garden pests – and his resistance to the idea that ‘slugs are our friend’.

The Gardening Club star says he favours copper rings that sit around the base of the plant.

The copper rings are more expensive as they can be reused multiple times – they typically retail for between £25 and £30.

However, those who are greenfingered on a budget can instead invest in copper tape – which works in the same fashion and is available for only £4.99 on Amazon for a 25-metre roll.

Titchmarsh said: “The only things that have worked for me are those rings of copper that resemble a vicar’s clerical collar and which can be pushed into the ground around individual plants to discourage the molluscs from coming any closer.

“They are reputed (if kept clean) to impart a kind of electric shock to any slug or snail attempting to scale their dizzying height of 1in.”

How does copper tape work?

The copper tape works by imparting an electrical charge that gives the slug a small static shock.

The tape can be trimmed to size and wound around the lips of lower pots and planners – creating an uncrossable barrier.

Other slug deterrent methods

The veteran presenter has tried a number of other methods for tackling the slug menace over the years – with limited results.

Titchmarsh says he long ago stopped using slug pellets, which cause the slugs to convulse but also pose a poisoning threat to hedgehods and birds.

The CBE has also tried various products that create a sharp or uncomfortable texture for the slugs to crawl over.

However, crushed eggshells, holly leaves, sharp grit, gravel and even sheep’s wool were all ‘at best, unreliable and more often than not totally ineffective’, according to Titchmarsh.

Coffee grounds are another foodstuff often touted as a slug repellent, but Titchmarsh says he doesn’t drink enough of it – plus he prefers that his garden doesn’t smell of Starbucks.

That leaves hand-picking them off plants by hand in the evening, a time-intensive procedure that also requires gloves if you want to avoid slimy hands.

Titchmarsh says he has had some sucess with pot feet, which only allow the more acrobatic slugs to gain access to your prized blooms.

Gardeners could be forgiven for feeling confused about how best to combat slugs given the array of techniques floated for dealing with this in recent years.

One gardening fan claimed that garlic helped to repel slugs and snails – even posting a recipe for a garlic spray.

Another intriguing possibility suggested as a natural pest deterrent is foxgloves, whose purple flowers contain toxic compounds such as digitalis glycosides, which can be very harmful for slugs. 

WHAT could you do with a square meter in your outside space?

Turns out – quite a lot – says Gardeners’ World presenter Nick Bailey – who’s spearheading new campaign Make a Metre Matter.

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He wants to get Sun Gardening readers involved too – supporting wildlife and sustainability – and making the planet a better place.

“There’s 20 million gardens in Britain. If 20 million people just dedicated one metre, that’s quite a lot of metres isn’t it?,” he told me.

“There are loads of ways you can make a meaningful difference, including growing plants for pollinators, growing veg to cut down on food miles and creating a compost heap.”

Nick’s created a Headline Show Garden for BBC Gardeners’ World Live later this month – with lots of Make a Metre Matter ideas to take home.

He added: “You can grow nine lettuces in that space. You could grow four compact courgettes and supply your family with more courgettes than you could eat for the summer.”

Currently Asda are selling courgette seeds for £2 – and you can get them in the ground now.

“You could choose to put acid compost in there and put four blueberries in there ” he said.

“Within your first harvest you’ve made your money back.”

“Equally you could just sow some British native wildflowers, which could be as cheap as £2 to £3 for a packet.

“It will give you a brilliant long run of colour from May through to October,  with lots of interest for pollinators.

“You could also create a square metre pond. In the first month you’ll have about 10 species in the pond.

“A year down the line you’ll have 20 plus species and it just goes up and up and up.

“Insect and bees will come and feed from there, you’ll support birds, you’re supporting the aquatic life itself.

“It doesn’t have to be a big space to make a big impact.”

If you’re inspired to make a difference – you can register your meter to be entered into a Gardeners World prize draw to win a £1k voucher to spend at Crocus or two runner up Crocus prizes of £500.

Visit www.Gardenersworld.com for more information. Gardeners World Live takes place at Birmingham NEC from June 12 – 15.

Also in Veronica’s Column this week…

Top tips, news and a great competition to win a £100 Westland plant feed bundle.

TOP TIP Salvias are coming into their prime right now – especially the Mexican hardy shrubby ones like Hot Lips, Limelight and Amistad.
To ensure you get the best blooms all summer, we’ve got some top tips from expert William Dyson, from Great Comp Garden in Kent

• Grow them in pots, or in your borders – they like free draining soil and sunshine.
• If you give them an extra chop in mid to late of July – cutting a third of the growth-  they’ll spring back and reward you with tons of flowers until November.
• Companion plant with perennials to give a cottage garden look
• Or make a statement in a large pot.
• Don’t let them get too dry – they do like to be watered,
• Don’t feed them with nitrogen plant food because you’ll get more leaves and less flowers.

Great Comp’s summer garden show is on August 9 and 10.

NEWS! The Beardy Gardener – an award-winning garden designer, broadcaster and mental health advocate, is hosting his first ever Garden Gathering on June 21 at the Longstock Park Nursery on the Leckford Estate, near Andover. 

The event supports Andover Mind’s ‘Garden for Mind’ initiative, a therapeutic green space dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellbeing.
The Garden Gathering promises a vibrant day filled with expert-led workshops, live demonstrations, plant sales, and family-friendly activities. For more info visit www.beardygardener.com/garden-gathering

NEWS! The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,500 exceptional private gardens across the UK while raising money for nursing and health charities. Visit the website to find a garden near you open this week.

WIN! Thanks to Westland  – we’re giving away two amazing plant feed bundles worth over £100 each. Each one contains Boost Boost All Purpose Granules, plant feed, Big Tom, Rose feed, bug gard and others. To enter visit www.thesun.co.uk/WESTLANDBOOST or write to Sun Westland Boost competition, PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. June 28, 2025. T&Cs apply.

JOB OF THE WEEK You can move a lot of houseplants outside now to make space or give them a bit of a boost with natural light. Water hanging baskets daily, start deadheading roses.

TOP TIP – if you, like me, are struggling with blackfly right now – make a spray of washing up liquid (Ecover is best) and water – and give them a good soaking. 

FOLLOW ME for more top tips and news @biros_and_bloom

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.

ALDI is bringing back its sell-out pressure washer just in time to blast your garden into shape this summer.

The special buys bargain is a whopping £58 cheaper than a similar Karcher model.

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The bargain FERREX Small Pressure Washer lands in stores this Thursday, June 5, as part of the supermarket’s latest Specialbuy drop and it’s only £49.99.

It previously hit shelves in April and flew out fast, with shoppers rushing to get their hands on one.

Now it’s back by popular demand, and it’s expected to sell out all over again.

Packing a punch with a 1,400W motor and 110 bar max pressure, it’s perfect for washing away moss, grime and stubborn dirt from patios, driveways and garden furniture.

The compact gadget comes with a three-metre hose, spray gun, cleaning lance and extension, and it’s got a quick-connect system to easily swap attachments on the go.

Weighing just 5kg, it’s light enough to carry around the garden and small enough to tuck away neatly after use thanks to its integrated hose and cable holder.

It’s a budget-friendly alternative to big brands — the Karcher K2 Power Control Home pressure washer, which also offers 110 bar pressure, costs £108 at Screwfix right now.

That makes Aldi’s version a massive £58 cheaper.

Aldi’s Specialbuys are known for delivering big-name features at bargain prices, from kitchen gadgets to garden must-haves but stock is always limited, and when it’s gone, it’s gone.

You can call your nearest store ahead of making a trip and check they’ve got the pressure washer in stock.

To stay ahead of the game, shoppers can also sign up to Aldi’s email alerts to get the inside scoop on upcoming deals.

And don’t forget it always pays to shop around.

Sites like Trolley.co.uk and PriceSpy let you compare prices across thousands of products and track price history, so you can be sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

Garden makeover

Aldi 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.

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%.

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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AN iconic Grand Designs house dubbed “perfect” by fans has hit the market for £1.5million after 20 years of “painstaking” renovation.

Green Dragon Barn, in South Hams, Devon, was forged from three connected barns by couple Sue Charman and Martin Whitlock.

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The pair took on the mammoth renovation task in 2001, when the property also featured on Kevin McCloud’s show.

After 20 years the eco-project has been completed, but is now listed for sale.

The decision came after Sue sadly died in 2023, and Martin chose to embark on a new chapter elsewhere.

When Grand Designs host Kevin re-visited the five-bedroom home, after last seeing it in 2001, he said: “This is a home lovingly, painstakingly, time-consumingly transformed.

“Resplendent with 20 years of devoted care.”

Martin explained: “The revisit in 2021 was a delight – we were completely ready and the house was looking at its best.

“A complete absence of drama! Of course things were very different back in 2000. We were racing against the clock and the weather, and the programme makers made the most of that.”

The homeowner told how they chose the house in 2000 because they wanted to near the sea, and Totnes.

“The barn was a complete wreck – actually three barns built together over three centuries, and a bigger project than we were planning, but it allowed us to really go to town and create some stunning rooms,” he added.

The couple enlisted the help of architect Adrian Slocombe, of Earthway Design, to navigate how to build on the sloping landscape.

Despite dedicating two decades to the renovation, Martin said the couple relished in the adventure.

“Although it took 20 years, it wasn’t 20 years of work on the house,” he said.

“We moved into two rooms in 2001 and gradually expanded out from there as we found time to do the work in our busy lives.

“So every so often there would be new rooms or features to enjoy. A real adventure.”

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The property boasts a large kitchen area which connects to an incredible 30-foot reception – kitted out with an oak floor and wood burning stove.

Potential buyers will also be able to enjoy an atrium and grand hall with dramatic pillar features.

As well as a utility room, there’s a stone larder and box room for more storage.

Upstairs, there’s four spacious bedrooms, two of which offer en-suit shower rooms, as well as a shared family bathroom.

And, one of Martin’s favourite areas is a huge vaulted room that lies beneath the thatch roof.

While creating the stunning renovation, the couple wanted to focus on keeping the project environmentally friendly.

Martin said: “Sue was passionate about environmental issues and we were determined to make the house as natural and sustainable as possible.

“It was a matter of principle but also very much in the spirit of the building.

“So the house is eco-conscious in its use of traditional, natural materials such as lime, stone, cob, slate and thatch, but is also highly insulated, has modern double glazing, a reed bed, a heat recovery system and a wood pellet boiler.”

Outside, the property boasts a private driveway which leads to a large parking and turning area in front of the house and garage.

Green Dragon Barn is now listed for sale by Stags at a guide price of £1,500,000.

Grand Designs’ most ‘bizarre’ house ever leaves fans raging

By Caron McKinlay

GRAND Designs’ most ‘bizarre’ house ever has left fans raging – as a pensioner builds a £600k replica of her own house.

In the latest episode of the property show 82-year-old Kathryn decided to build a 21st-century mirror image of her Edwardian home with a budget of £607,000 but she soon run into trouble.

The episode centred around Kathryn, who decided to move out of her home in North London following the death of her late husband.

Speaking to host Kevin McCloud, she said that she could no longer look after her home and that she couldn’t cope due to the stairs.

With the help of her son Gordon, Kathryn explained that she wanted to build a mirror image of her house right next door.

Fans of the show couldn’t understand the widow’s decision and slammed her decision as ridiculous.

“That was one ridiculous, overpriced, unnecessary, rip off builds I’ve seen in the history of this show.

“There’s skullduggery at play here, isn’t there Gordon?!” said one viewer.

Another added: “Omg 900k, would love to know the value now?

“Surely they could have updated the original, made the side a plot of land to sell to help with the costs #GrandDesigns.”

A third stated: “Nah that exterior is awful good lord. 900k??? Could have just fired a stair lift in her old place.”

While another fan added: “Oh dear, overpriced disaster imo. Should have just moved. All that money and already owned the land!”

During the show it was revealed that Kathryn had gone over budget by 100k due to a series of misfortunes out of her control.

Presenter Kevin described it as “dire” financially but worse was still to come.

As she was given a £19,000 bill for road cables to connect the house to electricity, and a dumbfounded Kevin was astonished.

The vast increase in costs caused fans to comment further as they couldn’t believe how much she had spent.

“Has she not heard of a stannah stair lift, what a waste of money” exclaimed a viewer.

“900k! And couldn’t even put a stairlift in! What a waste, should have saved the stress and bought a adapted bungalow.

“And it looks like a 1950s community centre” slated another.

One fan went as far as saying: “£900k for a three bed semi? Someone’s taking the p**s.”

The listing reads: “Green Dragon Barn enjoys a peaceful setting near the popular village of Blackawton, which offers a strong community spirit, a highly regarded primary school, a parish church, and a traditional village pub.

“The vibrant market town of Kingsbridge lies approximately 7 miles to the west and provides a wide range of shops, amenities, and a well-respected secondary school, serving nearby coastal villages such as Salcombe and Thurlestone.

“Totnes, around 7 miles to the north, offers an eclectic mix of independent shops, cafes, and galleries, along with a mainline railway station providing direct services to London in around three hours.

“To the south, the historic town of Dartmouth sits at the mouth of the beautiful River Dart and is renowned for its maritime heritage, excellent sailing facilities, and the prestigious Britannia Royal Naval College, also approximately 7 miles away.”

However, Martin said he “wouldn’t blame” new owners if they want to change the style to suit their personal preferences.

He also highlighted the potential their 1.3 acre garden and orchard have to offer.

Looking forward, Martin said: “I can’t imagine living in any house that I didn’t want to make changes to, so I’m open to a new project if I can find one.

“But whatever happens it will be a lot smaller – something on the scale of Green Dragon Barn is really a once-in-a-lifetime project.”

This comes after Grand Designs revealed the “most ambitious project ever” as parents embark on building an allergy-proof home.

Elinor and Born Barikor, from Richmond in south west London, have created the “healthy house” for their three children.

The couple’s two sons, Avery and Pascal, both have potentially life-threatening dairy, wheat, egg, gluten, soya, oat, pulses, fruit, nut, dust, pollen and animal fur allergies.

Elinor and Born bought their property in 2018 with the hopes of forging a “safe haven” for the boys.

Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud has since revisited the family to see how they got on.

Meanwhile, one local said their life is “completely ruined” by their millionaire neighbour’s “glass MONSTROSITY” Grand Designs-style super home.

Elsewhere, one Grand Designs house has been branded the “biggest pile of s*** in show’s history”.

And, Kevin McCloud has revealed the ONE bit of advice he’d give to anyone embarking on their own building project.

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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%.