There are many different tools and equipment items available that can help move things in the garden. You may find gardening easiest if you have a range of options that suit the different activities you do.
I have an allotment. There’s always lots of clearing and digging to be done, so it’s a good way of keeping fit.
Mark, Thrive client gardener
You don’t necessarily need to buy everything at once. If you are finding any activity challenging because of moving things, that's a good time to think about what could help.
Different manufacturers may use the same name for slightly different products. This is especially true when it comes to gardening trolleys and carts. This can make it a little confusing at first. It's best to focus on the design that suits you best and worry less about the name of the product!
Wheelbarrows
A wheelbarrow is an essential for many, particularly if you have a mid to large size garden.
You can find a wide range of models available to buy. Plastic wheelbarrows are usually more lightweight than metal ones so may be the better choice, depending on your feelings towards plastic.
If possible, it’s a good idea to try before buying.
Two-wheeled wheelbarrow
You may find a wheelbarrow with two wheels is more stable than a one-wheeled version.
Search for a two-wheeled wheelbarrow online
"I recommend using a single-handed wheelbarrow, which can be pulled with one hand, thus allowing one hand free for a cane or dog for navigation." - Alison, blind gardener
Equipment for transporting tools
We often find ourselves needing to transport tools around the garden. There is equipment designed to make this easier, whether it’s small hand tools or long-handled ones.
Gardening trolley
A gardening trolley allows tools and equipment to be easily gathered together and wheeled to where you are working.
There are different models of gardening trolley available. Some are quite low to the ground and on four wheels. These tend to be a bit bigger than a wheelbarrow and may be of use if you have a lot to transport.
Other models of garden trolley are more upright, allowing you to push them around from a standing position. They may have storage space for tools plus a refuse sack. You may prefer this model if you have any difficulties with bending or balance.
Search for a gardening trolley online
Garden cart with seat
This is typically a low, four-wheeled cart that looks a little like a plastic box on wheels. You can load it up with tools, then it also functions as a seat. This may be useful if you prefer to garden from a sitting position.
Search for garden cart and seat online
Gardening apron
Use this to carry and store smaller items in pockets around your person.
Search for a gardening apron online
Long-handled tools can be awkward to carry, even with a wheelbarrow or trolley. Another option is multi-change tools. These allow you to carry different heads and only one handle. Telescopic tools are also easier to carry when the handle is retracted.
Moving equipment for wheelchairs
If you use a wheelchair, you can keep tools to hand by transporting them safely in a wheelchair basket, trolley, or bag.
Search for a wheelchair storage basket online
For smaller tools and equipment, side hanging wheelchair bags can be useful.
Search for wheelchair side storage online
Other tools and equipment for moving things
Leaf tarp
A plastic sheet can be used to collect trimmings and cuttings. It can then be dragged to the compost bin.
Search for leaf tarp online
Flexi tub / bucket
This useful item is a flexible rubber bucket with two handles. You can use it to carry cuttings, other debris or even tools.
Search for flexi tub online
You can it carry a flexi tub against your body, although this can require a bit of strength when full. You may find it easier to transport using a garden trug trolley, which is specially designed to fit flexi tubs.
Search for garden trug trolley online
Sack truck / hand truck
If you will be moving very heavy items, a sack truck can make it easier. Sack trucks (sometimes also called hand trucks or sack barrows) are generally in an 'L' shape, with two heavy duty wheels. They can be a bit expensive compared to other moving equipment.
Search for sack truck online
Pot mover trolley / plant pot trolley
If you have a number of containers that you tend to move, you can find plant pot trolleys to help.
There are two main types of plant pot trolley. One is an upright version on two wheels. There is a small platform for the pot to go on and something that holds it in place as you wheel it around.
The other type is essentially a circle on four wheels. This may also be called a plant trolley / pot mover / pot caddy. This version is cost-effective, but may require more bending to use.
Search for pot mover trolley online
Cutting things and moving things around are good physical exercise. It gets the blood flowing.
Participant, Thrive Just 30! Initiative
There are a few ways you can make moving things around the garden more comfortable and reduce any risk.
"I buy lightweight pots and then plant them up in situ"
- survey respondent, gardening and lung conditions
When choosing gardening equipment and tools, there is a wide variety of models and brand names. Following our hints and tips should keep things simple and avoid expensive mistakes.
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