Garden Ideas

Contemporary

Small

Outdoor Living

Cooking

Decor

Garden Furniture

Storage

Garden

How to...

Projects

How To

Planting

Maintenance

Garden Vacuums

Lawn Mowers

Pressure Washers

Tools

Magazine

Latest Issue

best-mini-chainsaw.jpg

The 7 best mini chainsaws to easily give wood the chop

Inside-this-month-Oct-23-3-scaled.jpg

November 2024 Issue – out now

Lawn-mowers-pic-AM-3.jpg

Best budget lawn mower for reliable and affordable performance 2024

Discover easy switches to make good times last in the November issue of Modern Gardens magazine…

PLUS! The most beautiful plants you can buy now, our pick of the best clutter keepers, get the on-trend Moorish naturals look, add a powerful punch of lime to your plot, 6 easy projects with old wood, fill your garden with tempting textures, enjoy a spot of dried-flower faffing, what to do in your garden this month to keep it looking good, whip up a layered pumpkin latte, make your own buried treasures hanging basket this weekend, treat your garden to some some fiery faves, simple lace-lantern upcycle, hold an alfresco fondue party, share the strawberry tree love, and much more.

Don't forget to join our :a[#10GREENminutes campaign]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/10-green-minutes/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} to boost your mind, body and soul.

The winter months can be brutal on our native wild birds, with temperatures plummeting, adverse weather conditions, and a scarcity of natural food sources. That's why it's more important than ever that we provide our garden birds with energy-rich foods to keep them going until the warmer spring months roll around.

A simple :a[bird feeder]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/the-best-bird-feeders-uk/' } filled with suet, or a :a[bird table]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-bird-table/' } regularly topped up with mealworms can make all the difference to our favourite garden birds - and provide us with a source of entertainment as we enjoy watching the creatures tuck into their treats.

## Best bird food for winter at a glance:

While a good supply of bird seed is a benevolent gesture all year round, in the winter months, there are higher-energy foods that we recommend to keep your garden birds healthy and happy through the harshest season. Here is our selection of the tastiest and most nutritious types of bird food that will keep your feathered friends well-fed throughout winter.

## How we chose the best bird food for winter {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-folding-garden-chairs}

All of these bird foods have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the nutritional value, energy-giving properties, and protein levels in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching all types of wild bird food to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News, and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

## How else can I help wild birds through the winter?

In addition to offering wild birds food, it's important to provide a clean water source, ideally close to where you're feeding them. A :a[garden bird bath]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-bird-baths/' } is the most obvious solution, but a simple bowl, regularly refreshed, will suffice.

Setting up a :a[bird nest box]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-bird-nest-boxes-and-houses/' } is another way to help your neighbourhood birds. It's more likely that the box will be inhabited in the spring breeding season, but some birds, like sparrows, tits, and nuthatches, may consider your offer of free accommodation during the colder months.

Your bird feeder, whether that's a dedicated plastic or metal-framed option, or a full-size bird table, should be placed in a relatively secluded spot that offers a quiet area for birds to graze. If you have cats or cats as neighbours, it's best to place any feeder out of leaping distance of walls, fences, or garden furniture.

## What to read next: {#h-what-to-read-next}

:a[Give a hog a home with the best hedgehog house]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-hedgehog-house/' }

:a[Give your garden wildlife a cosy home with the best bug hotels]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/bug-hotels/' }

:a[The best garden water features in the UK]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-garden-water-feature-uk/' }

**Subscribe to Modern Gardens magazine and get the most out of your outdoor space.** Discover everything you need to know to make your outside space look fantastic, quickly and easily, with hundreds of simple ideas, designer tricks, affordable products and expert advice in every issue of Modern Gardens. **:a[View our latest subscription offers]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/modern-gardens-magazine?utm_source=moderngardensmagazine.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=bau_moderngardens&amp;utm_content=affiliates_button' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}** to save on shop prices.

_:a[Amy-Mae Turner]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/amy-mae-turner/' } is a Commerce Content Writer for Modern Gardens, Yours, Take A Break Pets, and A Modern Kitchen. When she's not pottering in the garden or mucking around in the kitchen, she can be found having doggy cuddles with her two beloved cockapoochis._

Look after your feathered friends with the best bird food for winter

Nothing screams summer more than the smoky smell of a BBQ and the delicious mezze of burgers, hotdogs, and skewers on your plate. Not only do they taste amazing but they’re the perfect excuse to bring everyone out into your garden, not that it takes much convincing when the sun’s out! But if you’ve had big dreams of summer soirees but are missing a BBQ to deliver the goods, it can feel like your ship has sailed. Luckily, Amazon comes to the rescue, making the process of getting a BBQ as quick and easy as possible.

First, there’s knowing what type of BBQ to go for. If you’ve had a BBQ in the past, you might have an idea as to whether you’re after the convenience of gas, the classic flavour of charcoal or the beauty of both with a hybrid grill. Or you might be completely clueless. Either way, Amazon makes the daunting process of selecting the right BBQ seamless by telling you everything you need to know.

What Amazon expertly does is clearly share each BBQ’s key features, specifications, customer reviews (so you can see how like-minded BBQers have got on) and a comparison table to directly see the differences between its extensive selection of products or other BBQs in your favourite brand’s range.

Amazon has streamlined the BBQ shopping experience, taking the guesswork out of choosing the right grill. With just a few clicks, you can have a high-quality barbecue delivered to your doorstep, leaving you ample time to focus on planning the ultimate summer cookout. No more lamentations over a missing grill - you can get sizzling in the sun as soon as possible.

Take for example the :a[Char-Broil Gas2Coal 2.0 Hybrid Grill]{href='https://amzn.to/4bQmzis' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. This firm favourite gives you the option to cook with gas and charcoal, and the ability to switch between both in just 60 seconds. It’s a well-rounded piece of kit with a side burner included, ideal for warming sauces or quickly preparing side dishes and vegetables, a side table and storage cabinet, and a warming rack to keep grub warm while you’re already chomping down. With four burners, it’s got plenty of space for entertaining groups of up to nine people and thanks to its patented charcoal tray, you don’t need to worry about flare-ups.

That being said, you may be looking for a smaller hybrid grill, in which case its :a[three burner alternative]{href='https://amzn.to/4fahHI8' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} comes with all the same perks. Or, if you love the idea of simply cooking on gas, the :a[Char-Broil 140895 Advantage Series 445S]{href='https://amzn.to/3LqY3df' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} is sure to please. In a gorgeous stainless steel, like the Gas2Coal it’s also available with a :a[three burner option]{href='https://amzn.to/4cXmGtI' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}.

But if you’re after the big smoky flavours that tickle your tastebuds, you may prefer the :a[Kamado Joe Classic II Smoker BBQ]{href='https://amzn.to/3LrYXWX' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. A grill with all the frills, this beautiful red ceramic Kamado grill has a whopping 250 square inches of capacity with the option for two-tier cooking, so you can cook different foods at various temperatures and guarantee there’ll be no hungry mouths going spare. Extremely efficient at locking in heat and flavours, you can expect delicious, juicy results with customers using it to cook pizzas, low-smoked pulled pork, and the “tenderest roast chicken ever”. Plus, it comes with a stand so you can manoeuvre it around your garden (good luck otherwise!)

Compared to the :a[Kamado Joe Classic I Smoker BBQ]{href='https://amzn.to/3Wdb2Ea' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}, it’s got some great upgrades, including the Air Lift hinge so you don’t need to hold the lid up, and the Control Tower top vent which gives you more precise temperature control. Nevertheless, the Classic I is still fab if you’re looking for an option that’s a little more affordable.

## Easy setup with Amazon’s delivery and assembly options

Next, there’s the delivery and thankfully, Amazon makes getting a new BBQ a breeze with convenient delivery and setup services. Not only do both these BBQs offer free delivery within a few days, but you have the option to add unpacking and assembly for a little extra. If you choose the unpacking option, the delivery team will bring the grill to your desired location and remove all the packaging, leaving you with a clean slate to start assembly. You can easily wave goodbye to a mountain of recycling without trying to squeeze into your outdoor bin.

Prefer not to assemble it yourself? Amazon offers full unpacking and professional installation as well. With this option, you’ll get all that plus a technician who’ll carefully construct your new BBQ for you using the manufacturer's instructions. This is a fab option if you’re not DIY savvy, are busy working or would just rather not be trying to put together a BBQ for two hours.

Simply choose your desired level of assistance, and your brand-new grill will be ready to fire up in no time.

And finally, if you have any issues, all of these BBQs are returnable and come with specialised customer support, on hand seven days a week. They’ll provide expert guidance to help you get the most from your new grill and make anything that needs fixing quick and easy.

You can find out more about :a[Amazon's home services right here]{href='https://amzn.to/3Ya8yJA' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}, with assembly and unpacking options not just for BBQs, but garden furniture and sheds too.

:a[_Eleanor Weaver_]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/eleanor-weaver/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} _is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor for Modern Gardens, specialising in outdoor furniture, décor, and tools. She's always looking out for inspiration online for stylish and affordable designs, and enjoys spending time in nature._

Need a BBQ for the summer months? Here’s how to get one quickly with zero effort

One item of :a[gardening clothing]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-gardening-clothes-guide/' target='_blank' rel='noopener'} we wouldn't be without is a gardening jacket - hanging on a hook by the back door, ready to grab once you've stepped into your favourite gardening shoes. As well as protecting you from the elements, garden jackets up their usefulness factor by boasting a plethora of pockets, which are handy for storing everything you need - including small garden tools, your mobile phone, a pack of tissues, and maybe even a tin of mints.

While you can get away with wandering out to your garden wearing just the clothes on your back in the warmer months, once the thermometer drops, it's time to reach for your trusty gardening jacket to protect you from the worst of the winter weather. Rather than opting for a bulky, duvet-style coat, the best gardening jackets offer a more slimline design so as not to hamper your movement, whether you're raking the lawn or pruning the roses.

We have carefully curated a round-up of all styles of gardening jackets, from traditional wax-coated choices to more modern reversible options. Whether you need robust outerwear for the allotment, a weatherproof coat to cover you as fill up the :a[bird feeders]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/the-best-bird-feeders-uk/' }, or simply a practical jacket to slip on as you put the bins out, we think you'll find a suitable option in our sartorial selection of the best gardening jackets currently available.

## How we chose the best gardening jackets {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-folding-garden-chairs}

All of these gardening jackets have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the style, materials, and, of course, the number of pockets in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching all types of jackets suitable for the garden to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

## What do I need to know about the sizing of gardening jackets?

The advice for the sizing of gardening jackets is the same for any kind of outerwear - order your usual size. Size charts on the retailer's website should give you more insight into this. Some retailers, like Amazon, share useful customer information they glean from reviewers about whether or not the garment fits true to size or if you need to size up.

Most of the jackets we're featuring are practical, machine-washable garments as gardening clothing, like :a[gardening aprons]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-gardening-aprons/' }, typically are. Often, manufacturers will recommend washing them on a 30-degree cycle to be on the safe side. Check the laundry label instructions on your jacket to see what the manufacturer recommends.

The only jackets we're featuring that can't go through the wash are the waxed jackets. Machine washing a wax jacket will remove the special protective coating that makes it weatherproof. You can brush dirt off wax jackets and spot-clean them, but in the long run, waxed jackets will eventually need to be re-waxed.

If you search online, you will find many professional jacket re-waxing services available. Alternatively, you can buy :a[wax cotton dressing]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Barbour-Family-size-Thornproof-Dressing/dp/B0BMGYBB7P?tag=qmgarticle428-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} that you can apply yourself with a soft cloth or polishing pad. There are hundreds of helpful YouTube tutorial videos which show you the best way to do this.

:a[The best garden shoes for men for quick trips outdoors]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/garden-shoes-for-men/' }

:a[The best gardening overalls for outdoor and leisurewear]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/gardening-overalls/' }

:a[The best stylish gardening gloves]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/the-best-stylish-gardening-gloves/' }

Combine style and substance with the best gardening jackets

Spending time in your garden is one of the simple pleasures in life. What isn't so pleasant is being overlooked by nosy neighbours, barked at by defensive doggos, or gawped at by passersby. With some clever garden screening ideas, you can completely transform your outside space and your enjoyment of it. Garden screens are a simple kind of :a[garden decor]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-garden-accessories-stylish/' } that turns your garden into a tranquil outdoor oasis.

While privacy is the primary reason most garden owners opt for garden screening solutions, aesthetics also come into play. Garden screens can shield unsightly fencing and crumbling walls or even hide your wheelie bin store by adding a vertical surface that's easy on the eye. Trellis-style garden screening can also offer exciting planting opportunities, with the option to grow beautiful :a[climbing plants]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-climbing-plants/' } up the structure.

The best garden screening ideas are relatively easy to install, which is great news for anyone with limited DIY skills. We're featuring some garden screening options that can simply be pinned into position, meaning you could enjoy improved privacy in your outside space, whether that's a garden or a balcony, in a matter of minutes. Check out our savvy selection of the best garden screening ideas below.

## Best garden screening ideas to inspire you

## How we chose the best garden screening options {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-folding-garden-chairs}

All of these garden screening ideas have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the design, efficacy, and difficulty of installation in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching all types of garden screening to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

## What is the best kind of garden screening?

This depends on several factors, including your budget, your DIY skills, the size of the area you want to shield, and what already exists in that space that you could possibly attach screening to. The easiest kind of screening to install are those you can easily attach to an existing fence. If you have the skills and the correct :a[garden DIY tools]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/the-best-diy-tools/' }, trellises and fence toppers are an attractive solution.

## Do I need planning permission to install garden screening?

Most of the kinds of garden screening we're highlighting above do not require any kind of permission to put up. The only one that might is the fence topper if attaching the topper means the overall height of the fence is more than two metres.

## What kind of plants are the best for garden screening?

Hawthorn and blackthorn are wildlife-friendly options that will provide a habitat for all kinds of creatures in your garden. Ever-popular laurel and privet are fast-growing options. Leylandii is possibly the fastest-growing choice overall, but you need to keep on top of maintaining it, as it can literally grow out of hand. Yew grows slower, but as a popular choice for topiary projects, can be shaped to suit your taste. If you want a decorative option, all kinds of euonymus hedges offer attractive foliage.

:a[Best solar lanterns for the garden]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-solar-lanterns/' }

:a[Best garden mirrors to brighten up your outdoor space]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/garden-mirrors-uk/' }

Protect your outdoor privacy with the best garden screening ideas

Anyone who regularly chops their own firewood will know it can be an arduous task. To make it less of an effort, it's well worth investing in the ideal :a[garden tool]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-garden-tools/' } to help. A splitting axe, or splitting maul, is just that. Whether you want to create kindling to get your pot-bellied chiminea going or chop full-size fuel for your :a[fire pit]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/best-garden-fire-pits/' }, a splitting axe is the tool to reach for.

Splitting axes and mauls are designed specifically for chopping wood into useable-sized logs or kindling. They have a heavy, wedge-shaped head to break through wood and a longer handle than a traditional axe to give you the swing momentum you need to chop wood. In short, they are ideal for any gardener to keep their :a[garden log store]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/garden-log-stores/' } fully stocked throughout the year.

## Best axes for splitting wood at a glance:

Very similar in appearance, the only real difference between splitting axes and splitting mauls is that mauls tend to be heavier to tackle large, tough logs and are more effective than a splitting axe when it comes to knotty wood, which is obviously harder to chop. For most people's firewood chopping needs, a splitting axe will suffice. We have a selection of both types in our roundup of the best wood-splitting options currently available.

## Best splitting axes and splitting mauls

## How we chose the best axes for splitting wood {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-folding-garden-chairs}

All of these splitting axes have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the weight of the axe head, length of the handle, and overall quality in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching all types of axes and mauls to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

## Can I use a standard axe to split wood?

You can absolutely use a bog-standard axe to split wood, especially smaller logs. However, if you split wood often or want to break up large logs, investing in a specialist splitting axe or maul is strongly recommended. Splitting mauls and axes have longer handles for a more effective swing and a wedge-shaped head for increased splitting power.

## How do I find the perfect length for my axe?

Fiskars has some useful advice on finding the perfect length axe to suit you: "Grab the axe at the handle, just beneath the blade. Hold the stem horizontally in the direction of your shoulder. If the end of the handle reaches your armpit, the axe is too long for you."

## What is the perfect height for a splitting block?

The perfect chopping block would be a tree-trunk style block of wood with a straight surface. It must be approximately knee height to give you enough room to swing at the log you're splitting. It should be wider than the wood you're chopping in case you miss the log - this means the axe will hit the block and not the ground or, worse, your legs.

There are various solutions that can help you :a[sharpen all your garden tools]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-sharpener-for-garden-tools/' }. A sharpening stone, or whetstone, is an ever-popular option for larger axe edges. You simply need to wet the stone and run it along the edge of the blade.

:a[Best tool shed to keep your gear safely stored]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/best-tool-shed/' }

:a[Buyer’s guide to fire baskets]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/fire-baskets/' }

:a[Showstopping modern chimineas that will upgrade your garden]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/modern-chimineas/' }

Chop perfectly proportioned logs with the best axe for splitting wood

Dobbies Gardens Centres has everything you need to prepare your garden for the autumn season, and we’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win a £250 voucher to help with seasonal gardening essentials!

Whether you are looking to add some later summer colour to your pots, beds or hanging baskets; taking on some Autumn gardening tidying; or getting ready for the cooler months with outdoor heaters and fire pits, Dobbies has all your autumn garden living needs sorted.

Visit your local Dobbies store or shop online at :a[www.dobbies.com]{href='http://www.dobbies.com' } and start planning your dream autumn garden today.

https://xd.wayin.com/embed/fac9bad3-d693-427f-a026-2fd30c697730?mode=responsive&scrolling=no

Win a £250 voucher to spend at Dobbies!

What better way to keep grass green, plants fed, and cats away from our lawns than stocking up on the best garden and outdoor deals? You can find :a[outdoor grills]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-outdoor-grills/' }, patio cleaners and more to ensure your garden is looking its best and there's no better place than right now. Amazon and other major retailers are currently offering discounts across hundreds of categories, including garden and outdoor deals.

## Best outdoor and garden deals across the web:

• **Amazon:** :a[Today's deals]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/deals?tag=qmgarticle134-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}  
• **John Lewis:** :a[Up to 30% off outdoor living]{href='https://www.johnlewis.com/browse/special-offers/home-furniture-offers/garden-furniture-bbq-offers/_/N-nt23' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Kärcher:** :a[Best deals]{href='https://www.kaercher.com/uk/best-deals.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}  
• **Argos:** :a[Garden and DIY offers]{href='https://www.argos.co.uk/events/garden-diy-offers?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Just Lawnmowers:** :a[Special offers]{href='https://www.justlawnmowers.co.uk/special-offers.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Wayfair:** :a[Outdoor sale on garden furniture]{href='https://www.wayfair.co.uk/garden/cat/outdoor-sale-c527448.html?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Ooni:** :a[30% off pizza oven accessories]{href='https://uk.ooni.com/?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Outdoor Living:** :a[Deals on Lay-Z-spa inflatable hot tubs]{href='https://www.outdoorlivinghottubs.co.uk/collections/lay-z-spa-inflatable-hot-tubs' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Homebase:** :a[Garden & Outdoor Deals Big Sale now on]{href='https://www.homebase.co.uk/deals/garden-deals/20-off-garden-furniture-accs-wys-500.list?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

This is an opportunity to pick up some substantial savings on branded gardening must-haves to help you achieve a gorgeous garden for the current months and beyond. Save big on your wish list; whether that's on a lawn mower, garden vacuum or :a[hybrid BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-hybrid-electric-bbq/' }. We hand-selected our top picks further below for you to peruse at your leisure.

_All discounts are correct at the time of publishing._

## Best garden and outdoor deals currently available

## Where can I get the best Amazon Prime offers?

On Amazon right now! Check out the :a[Today's deals]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/deals?tag=qmgarticle134-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} landing page to see the current offers.

If you're not already, we'd also recommend signing up to :a[Amazon Prime]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/amazonprime?tag=qmgarticle134-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} to get a 30-day free trial. It means you'll get free next-day delivery on your purchases, and access to the best Amazon deals, and you can always cancel it if you do not feel like you will benefit from the service in the long run. Being a Prime member costs £8.99 per month, or £95 for the year if you pay upfront.

:a[The best hot tub deals 2024]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/best-hot-tub-deals/' }

:a[Best Kärcher pressure washer deals for a mighty clean-up]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/pressure-washers/best-deals-on-karcher-pressure-washer/' }

:a[Blast your way to savings with the best pressure washer deals]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/pressure-washers/best-deals-pressure-washers/' }

:a[Best lawn mower deals 2024: The limited-time offers worth exploring]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/lawn-mowers/best-deals-on-lawn-mowers/' }

**Subscribe to Modern Gardens magazine and get the most out of your outdoor space.** Discover everything you need to know to make your outside space look fantastic, quickly and easily, with hundreds of simple ideas, designer tricks, affordable products and expert advice in every issue of Modern Gardens. :a[View our latest subscription offers]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/modern-gardens-magazine?utm_source=moderngardensmagazine.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=bau_moderngardens&amp;utm_content=affiliates_button' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} to save on shop prices.

_:a[Natalie Corner]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/natalie-corner/' } is the Commercial Content Editor across the Specialist Portfolio for Bauer Media and is slowly learning how to care for her plant babies. When she's not soaking up the three days of sunshine in the great British outdoors, she's testing out the latest BBQ products._

Exciting outdoor and garden deals available now

If you're on the hunt for an :a[outdoor BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-outdoor-grills/' } that can be transformed into a smoker, air fryer, and electric grill _and_ one that you can take with you on your travels - then the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ & Smoker could be a contender for you to never look at a gas or charcoal BBQ in the same way ever again. Ninja has well and truly taken over the air fryer game, but their foray into the world of outdoor cooking is their most exciting yet.

:a[Electric and compact BBQs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/electric-bbq-balcony/' } have been soaring in popularity for a while now, thanks to 'instant' low-cost disposable BBQs being proven to be incredibly bad for the environment and, ironically, hard to dispose of. Many who live in a flat but have a balcony have also switched to smaller, more compact versions of your normal gas or charcoal BBQ, and electric is a much safer, landlord-friendly option.

Designed to allow users to enjoy authentic Woodfire flavours in any outdoor space using 100 per cent real wood-burning pellets, the innovative new Woodfire grill simply needs to be plugged in and is ready to go, with no need for charcoal, gas or flames. Read on to find out just how our writer, Hannah Mellin, got on putting it through its paces.

## Ninja Woodfire grill overview {#h-ninja-woodfire-grill-overview}

Due to its popularity, the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ is often sold out, if that's the case, you can try the following retailers:

:a[Amazon]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ninja-OG701UK-Dehydrate-Resistant-Non-Stick/dp/B0BS753P4H/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?tag=qmgarticle270-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
:a[John Lewis]{href='https://www.johnlewis.com/ninja-woodfire-electric-bbq-grill-smoker-black/p109914864' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
:a[Argos]{href='https://www.argos.co.uk/product/1931116?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
:a[Ninja]{href='https://ninjakitchen.co.uk/product/ninja-woodfire-electric-bbq-grill-smoker-og701uk-zidOG701UK' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
:a[Currys]{href='https://www.currys.co.uk/products/ninja-woodfire-og701uk-outdoor-electric-bbq-grill-and-smoker-black-10246461.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
:a[Very]{href='https://www.very.co.uk/ninja-woodfire-electric-bbq-grill-amp-smoker-og701uk/1600848504.prd?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}

## Testing the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker {#h-testing-the-ninja-woodfire-electric-bbq-grill-amp-smoker}

I put the Ninja Woodfire to the test over periods of good weather (and some wet and cloudy weather, too) and a variety of great food. It was tested in an outdoor environment, including my garden and a campsite.

Something that cannot be stressed enough is that the Ninja Woodfire is an outdoor-only appliance. **It is not an indoor appliance**. There have been loads of searches about whether you could use the Woodfire inside as long as you don't use the smoker function, but it is simply not true. Don't risk it. The appliance gets incredibly hot and still produces smoke throughout the cooking process and when you open the lid, even if you're just using the grill function.

The Ninja Woodfire came in a huge, heavy box but was surprisingly simple to set up and get to grips with. All you need to do is attach the two handles, which can be done in a jiffy. The only fiddly bit was turning on the button underneath the appliance that makes the magic happen. It's hard to reach and not very well-lit, but once you do it once you get the hang of it pretty quickly. You need to press the 'test' button on the plug to turn it on properly after that. The instruction booklet is one of the most simple I've ever come across and contains tonnes of handy images to refer to if you get stuck.

• 1x Grill Plate  
• 1 x Cook and Crisp Basket  
• 1 x Removable Woodfire Smoke Box  
• 1x Grease Tray  
• 1 x Pellet Scoop  
• 1 x Sample Bag Ninja Woodfire Pellets (Robust)  
• 1 x Sample Bag Ninja Woodfire Pellets (All-Purpose)

Display-wise, the Ninja comprises of a knob that displays the seven cooking functions, a digital display, a button to infuse the woodfire flavour, a start/stop button and then buttons to adjust the time and the heat.

The Ninja Woodfire towers over its rivals, firstly in size and then in the amount it delivers. In comparison to other portable BBQs, :a[like the Weber Traveller,]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/weber-traveler-review/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} the Ninja is way more sturdy and despite being compact, I don't think you'll catch many people taking it down their local picnic spot or beach (mainly because you need to have electric), but it is heavy and robust, and for good reason, given all the cooking it can do. But if you're after a less messy solution to take camping, the Ninja Woodfire may just be your saving grace and will tempt you away from portable gas stoves or smaller charcoal BBQs for good.

The Ninja Woodfire body itself is big and bulky, but with some strength, is easy to move around. The handles are super easy to attach and then remove again and you will be able to take it camping or anywhere you like if you've got room in your car. I definitely think it is worth investing in a cover for your Ninja Woodfire, we've found one on :a[Amazon for £16.99]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Waterproof-Dustproof-Drawstrings-Compatiable-61cm%C3%9748cm%C3%9733cm/dp/B0BZCNHHFK?tag=qmgarticle270-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} that is waterproof, dustproof and has loads of space to ensure your grill is protected.

With seven different functions under one lid - Grill, Smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat and Dehydrate - the outdoor cooking possibilities are endless. Despite looking and feeling like a simple outdoor grill, it does so much more, and the air fryer function is especially exciting as they have been the most sought-after appliance of the past few years.

Ninja’s unique Woodfire technology also tenderises large cuts of meat, enabling users to experiment with different ingredients and flavours. Grill everything from BBQ classics like burgers, sausages and halloumi kebabs, to tender beef brisket, sticky ribs, juicy steaks, spatchcock chicken, a whole salmon fillet, chargrilled vegetables and so much more.

The Ninja even comes with a handy cookbook, giving you all the inspiration you need to get the most out of your Ninja Woodfire.

The grill function allows you to grill with the lid open for that authentic BBQ experience, or no-hassle lid-shut cooking – perfect for cooking thick cuts of meat or frozen food to perfection. The grill function is great for burgers, sausages, steaks and chargrilled vegetables. I found that the Ninja gets incredibly hot on the highest setting, so I cooked my burgers and sausages on the medium setting to avoid the incredibly _authentic_ too burnt BBQ finish.

Allow the Ninja to preheat, adjust the temperature (choose low, medium or high) and adjust the cooking time and you're ready to go. You can close the top or have it open, it is completely up to you, but things are much quicker with the lid down. I love the grill finish on perfectly cooked succulent steaks, something that is very tricky to achieve using a charcoal or gas BBQ.

With an integrated smoke box that uses natural wood pellets and convection, the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker evenly circulates heat and smoke around food, ensuring rich, fully developed woodfire flavours.

The Smoker function has got everyone talking and is definitely a top selling point on this electric outdoor grill. If you told me you could achieve delicious, smoky flavours on an electric BBQ, I naively just wouldn't believe you. My first attempt at using the Smoker function on the Ninja was at Easter when I slow-smoked a lamb shoulder for four hours. I dusted my joint of lamb with rosemary, popped it on the grill, loaded up the smoke box with wood pellets and let the Smoker do its magic. I've smoked meat on more traditional Smokers before and honestly, this tasted exactly the same, fell off the bone, took less time to cook and was way easier to clean up afterwards.

• For optimal smoke flavour, minimise the time the lid is open when adding or flipping food.  
• Do not use any oils or non-stick sprays when smoking because the smoke will not adhere to the food as well.  
• Smaller food loads such as vegetables and minced meat absorb more smoke.  
• Timing is completely up to you. The Ninja is powerful, so it is worth weighing the meat beforehand to see how long it will need.

The option to use your Ninja Woodfire as an air fryer takes it from an incredible BBQ Smoker and Grill to an incredible outdoor oven. Not everyone wants to BBQ every day, and the novelty of cooking a bowl of chips outside with ease excites me, especially in the summer months or on camping trips. Who wants to turn their oven on in a heatwave?

Air fryers are Ninja's bread and butter, so it is no surprise that the function is super simple to use every single time, whether you're frying chips, wedges, chicken wings or onion rings.

All keen BBQ fans know that roasting a joint of meat on the BBQ is a magical experience. If you don't feel like adding the woodfire smoke flavours to your meat, you can still use the roast function to cook large cuts of meats, such as a ham or a delicious chunk of beef. I chose to roast a Cajun spiced spatchcock chicken and it took under one hour on the highest setting. Honestly, please don't underestimate how quickly this appliance cooks your food.

Yep, you read that right, you can cook brownies, scones and pies in your garden!

The Ninja Woodfire retails at £349, which is a similar price to what you would pay for a mid-range :a[gas BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-gas-bbq-grill-cooking/' }. :a[Hybrid BBQs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-hybrid-electric-bbq/' } - also known as dual fuel - are the closest that you could get to have as many functions as the Ninja Woodfire (hybrids have gas and charcoal), and if you're looking to splurge on a :a[smoker grill]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-smoker-grills/' }, you're looking at a price of £200 at a minimum.

The number of functions and the convenience of using electricity really do sell it for me, but the capacity of the Ninja Woodfire may let it down for some. It does cook up a feast, but if you're having a large family BBQ, you may struggle to fit all the food in. You also have to cook in stages: Cook the meat, add the veg and then air fry some potatoes afterwards. However, if you're cooking for a family of four whilst camping, for example, the fact you can cook meat, vegetables and potatoes on the same appliance is a game-changer.

You also need to bear in mind the amount of money you may need to spend once you've bought it, the wood pellets cost £30 for two 2lbs/ 900g bags, which should last up to 40 cooking sessions. Since it can be set up on any table, there’s no requirement to purchase the collapsible grill stand and cover, but for those who want it, it’s a further £150.

## Overall verdict: Is the Ninja Woodfire worth it?

Not only is this appliance a game changer if you only have a balcony or tiny patio, but it offers easy, mess-free outdoor cooking no matter where you plan to cook – you just need access to power. Unlike hybrid BBQs or a small :a[tabletop BBQ,]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-tabletop-bbq/' } this isn’t just a BBQ/grill alternative; it offers multiple cooking functions. It can air fry, bake, roast, and it’s a smoker, too.

I love the clever Smoker function, which features the self-igniting smoke box where you put the pellets is just like cooking over a wood or charcoal fire - without the danger and the mess. If you're a fan of smoked meats and cook them often like me, I really do think it is worth splashing the cash on this appliance. I personally don't own a :a[charcoal BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/charcoal-bbq/' } anymore, and I don't think I'm going to invest in one since owning a Ninja either - which, in my opinion, is a huge compliment to the new member of the Ninja family. I know so many people who have a Ninja appliance, and the familiarity of the feel and functions is another plus point to me. Despite looking intimidating, using the Ninja Woodfire really is a breeze, so would be a great introduction to the BBQ world, as well as a safer option, too.

I have shocked myself at how often I've used the Ninja Woodfire, telling my partner not to turn the oven on because "We can just cook it on the Woodfire instead."

## Ninja Woodfire grill accessories {#h-ninja-woodfire-grill-accessories}

:a[Best gas BBQs under £200 for seamless outdoor cooking]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-gas-grill-under-200/' }

:a[Best portable BBQ for cooking away from home]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-portable-bbq/' }

:a[Best BBQ brands for grill completists]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-brands/' }

**Subscribe to Modern Gardens magazine and get the most out of your outdoor space.** Discover everything you need to know to make your outside space look fantastic, quickly and easily, with hundreds of simple ideas, designer tricks, affordable products and expert advice in every issue of Modern Gardens. :a[View our latest subscription offers]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/modern-gardens-magazine?utm_source=moderngardensmagazine.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=bau_moderngardens&amp;utm_content=affiliates_button' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} to save on shop prices.

_:a[Hannah Mellin]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/hannah-mellin/' } is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens. She has been working in the Journalism industry for over a decade and has written for an array of brands including John Lewis, Daily Mirror and Grazia. When she's not writing, researching or testing products, she's rennovating her Victorian terrace and chilling in the garden with her sausage dog Waffle._

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill review: the portable all-in-one air fryer, smoker and grill

If you are on the lookout for the best garden shed to keep your space looking pristine, we have got you covered. Sheds are :a[garden storage]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/garden-storage-ideas/' } essential, that's why, at Modern Gardens, we've curated the ultimate guide to the best garden sheds on the market.

Sheds and :a[garden storage boxes]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/garden-storage-boxes/' } are great for storing just about anything, from seasonal furniture and accessories like BBQs and sun loungers, to, of course, all your gardening tools. The best sheds will keep all your outdoor accessories protected and safe all year round from the weather and any little animals that may venture into your garden during the night.

## Best garden sheds at a glance: {#h-best-garden-sheds-at-a-glance}

• **Best small plastic shed:** Keter Manor Outdoor Plastic Garden Storage Shed - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Keter-Outdoor-Plastic-Garden-Storage/dp/B00BI0VPIW?tag=qmgarticle51-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}  
• **Best premium wooden shed:** Pinelap Wooden Garden Shed - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pinelap-quality-wooden-garden-timber/dp/B07B9K2WBH?tag=qmgarticle51-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best value wooden shed**: Mercia Wooden Overlap Garden Shed - :a[View now on Argos]{href='https://www.argos.co.uk/product/7058615?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

So whether you are looking to build a :a[tool shed]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/best-tool-shed/' } or storage unit - we have picked a range of sheds in different sizes and materials to fit your needs.

We want to make finding the right shed for you as simple as possible, so on top of our online best buys, we’re giving you some pro tips on ensuring your shed suits your needs, as well as some great shed interior ideas you can find below.

## Best garden sheds {#h-best-garden-sheds-at-a-glance}

## How to find the perfect shed for you: {#h-how-to-find-the-perfect-shed-for-you}

**Size** – size will be a major factor when choosing a garden shed, take into account the space you have available in your back garden and how much you’re willing to lose. As well as this, make sure to note down what you’re looking to do with your shed and if the size will accommodate, for example not all sheds may be able to fit bikes.

**Purpose** – of course, what you will be using your shed for is key. If you’re only planning to store small gardening tools and :a[inflatable pools]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/the-best-swimming-pools/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, a small shed will be enough for you. However, if you’re looking to store bikes or even convert the shed to an outdoor office, you’ll need to get your measuring tape out and plan a size that works for practicality.

**Price** – price and budgets will be different for everybody. As per usual, the price is determined by the materials used and the size. Plastic and metal sheds will be more budget-friendly, whereas hardwoods like Timber are more expensive. But, you get what you pay for.

## Shed interior ideas {#h-shed-interior-ideas}

Perfect for any avid gardener, this organisation is on point, with a dedicated potting station and all your small gardening tools right where you can see them.

Ideal for any DIY-ers among us, have everything right where you can see them and make your home tasks that little bit easier.

Stuck on how to store you're larger gardening tools? Utilise all your wall space with shelves and hooks, yes even on the inside of the door!

Think vertical when storing bikes to utilise as much space as possible.

## Read more popular articles {#h-read-more-popular-articles}

:a[Shed organisation: How to get the most out of your outdoor storage]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-designs/shed-organisation-ideas/' }

:a[Best garden log stores to protect wood all year-round]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/garden-log-stores/' }

:a[The best wheelie bin storage for your garden]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/wheelie-bin-storage-best/' }

_:a[Ellen Kinsey]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/ellen-kinsey/' } is a senior health and wellness product writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in sustainable living and health. She lives and breathes all things natural health, cooking and nature._

Storing your outside essentials: the best garden sheds

Your mission to find the best robot :a[lawn mower]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/lawn-mowers/best-lawn-mower/' } under £1000 stops here. Finding you a mid-range mower is much easier than looking for a budget option. They can be an ideal choice for those of us with medium to large gardens. With a mid-range option, you’re getting many of the features and capabilities of a higher-end model. But, not at the eye-watering price point. For those of us with less time on our hands, an automatic lawn mower solution is more than ideal, it’s essential.

Garden technologies and innovation seem to be growing year by year. In recent years, :a[cordless lawn mowers]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden-care/tools/best-cordless-lawn-mower/' } have been propelled into the spotlight, providing fuss-free manual cutting. On the other hand, :a[ride-on mowers]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/lawn-mowers/best-lawn-mower-ride-on/' } are perfect for larger lawns or if you measure your outdoor space in acres. The robot lawn mower brings unparalleled convenience to many of us. With this in mind, we’ve ensured that you have plenty of options and information before you add to your shopping cart.

Latest on Modern Gardens