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Exciting outdoor and garden deals available now

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October 2024 Issue – out now

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Best budget lawn mower for reliable and affordable performance 2024

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.

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 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.

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

: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/' }

: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._

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.

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.

## 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.

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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._

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

Chainsaws and ladders aren't a combination made in garden maintenance heaven. Our resident gardening expert, :a[Geoff Hodge]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/geoff-hodge/' } says, "Where trees are involved, it's a good idea to look for a tool that allows you to cut them safely from terra firma, without having to clamber up through branches or wobble on the top of a rickety step ladder." Enter the best pole saw, a kind of mini chainsaw or saw blade on a stick, that make for great :a[garden tools]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-garden-tools/' } to help you lop the tops of growth in your garden. Designed for use on greenery that is beyond arm's length, pole saws can cut through tree branches that have gotten too tall and cut off the tops of hedges, bushes, and shrubs.

You could argue that pole saws are borderline pro-level power tools, but tree surgeons and professional gardeners can be expensive - and hard to find - so if you have the confidence and expertise, trimming your own trees with a pole saw can save you both time and the hassle of dealing with tradespeople. Plus, once you've invested in a decent garden tool like a pole saw, you can use it season after season if you maintain it well.

Pole saws come in two different designs - motorised power tools and traditional manual saw-style options. Motorised versions can be powered by petrol, corded electric, or as cordless tools with rechargeable batteries. Petrol-powered pole saws are not the most eco-friendly and tend to be loud, expensive, and better suited to pros. So, we're taking a look at the best electric and manual pole saws currently available that are best suited to your :a[tool shed]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/best-tool-shed/' }.

## How we chose the best pole saws {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-folding-garden-chairs}

All of these pole saws have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the design, functionality, and usability in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching motorised and manual pole saws to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

There is a huge difference between the two types of pole saw available. Deciding which is best for you depends on your budget, skill level, and physical ability.

Geoff Hodge lays it out: "While standard :a[manual secateurs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-garden-secateurs-uk/' }, pruners, and saws will do an excellent job, those gardeners with lots of trees and shrubs will find powered tools a godsend, as will gardeners with mobility or other health issues. Thick branches can involve a hard squeeze with manual secateurs, which is a painful exercise if you suffer from arthritis, an old injury, or simply don't have the strength anymore."

So generally motorised pole saws will make your pruning job faster and easier, however, Hodge warns of the downside of powered pole saws. "Don't forget that powered tools are heavier than their manual counterparts, so wherever possible, check how heavy the tool is before you make the purchase."

Manual pole saws are generally more affordable than motorised options, don't require a power cable or charging, don't need to be oiled, and are more lightweight than powered options. They do require more physical effort though, and you have to have a certain amount of skill in understanding the pole saw's flexure, especially when using them at longer lengths.

## What are the best pole saw alternatives?

If you don't think a pole saw is the garden tool for you, consider these alternatives. While they don't all offer the reach a pole saw does, they are useful cutting tools to consider adding to your pruning tool arsenal.

**:a[Mini chainsaws]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-mini-chainsaw/' }** - These cordless power tools boast chain-covered blades of between four and eight inches, offering a very efficient and fast way of cutting through all kinds of branches and wood.

**:a[Electric secateurs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-electric-secateurs/' }** \- These powered hand tools can take on most average garden pruning challenges with most offering the ability to cut branches with a diameter of up to 30mm (approximately 1.18 inches).

**:a[Hedge trimmers]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/hedge-trimmers-uk/' }** \- These are more designed for cutting greenery and foliage than lopping off branches, but they are great for hedge management.

**:a[Garden multi-tools]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-garden-multi-tool/' }** \- Depending on the model, garden multi-tools have interchangeable heads that can include mini chainsaws and pole saws for a capable multi-tasking tool to cover your pruning needs.

:a[**Pruning saws**]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-pruning-saw/' } - These longer-length handheld saws are designed for cutting through wood but just don't offer the length and reach a pole saw does.

## Safety considerations when using a motorised pole saw

## Safety considerations when using any kind of pole saw

:a[The best garden sprinkler for your outdoor space]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-garden-sprinkler/' }

:a[Best edging tools to sharpen up your garden]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-edging-tools/' }

:a[The best hose pipes for your lawn and garden in 2024]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-hose-pipes-uk/' }

The best pole saws to reach new heights when trimming and pruning

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

Small, lightweight, and portable, having the best mini chainsaw in your :a[garden toolkit]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-garden-tools/' } is great for tackling all kinds of wood-related cutting tasks. Whether you want to prune overgrown trees and bushes, chop down wood for kindling, or if you're crafting a timber-themed creation, a mini chainsaw is the tool to reach for.

A mini chainsaw is a convenient, cordless alternative to full-sized tools, as Modern Gardens contributor :a[Geoff Hodge]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/geoff-hodge/' } explains. "If you're worried about using a standard chainsaw, and haven't been trained nor have all the required safety clothing and equipment, these are the perfect alternative." Caution is still advised though when using any kind of cutting tool. "Treat them with reverence and respect at all times; they can zip through dense wood with ease."

A standard-size mini chainsaw will have a six-inch 'guide bar' that the chain wraps around, but we're also featuring four- and eight-inch options so you can choose the best size to suit your sawing needs. All the mini chainsaws we're featuring are powered by rechargeable batteries and most bundle in extra parts such as spare chains, and even in some cases, safety goggles. Take a look through our sharp selection below to find your next favourite garden tool.

## Best mini chainsaw for your cutting needs

## How we chose the best mini chainsaws {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-folding-garden-chairs}

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

If you need to saw wood often, then yes, a mini chainsaw is a savvy investment. If your only wood-cutting tasks are everyday garden pruning, then you may get away with a pair of :a[electric secateurs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-electric-secateurs/' }.

However, powered pruners can generally only tackle branches with a diameter of up to 30mm (approximately 1.18 inches), whereas mini chainsaws can take on wood up to six inches in diameter.

## Safety considerations when using a mini chainsaw

While full-sized chainsaws require special safety clothing and ideally even professional training in best practice usage, mini chainsaws can be used by gardeners and DIYers who are confident using handheld power tools. However, there are still some vitally important safety factors to consider.

• Familiarise yourself with how your mini chainsaw works in a safe outdoor place before trying to cut anything, paying particular attention to the braking procedure.

• Before you use the mini chainsaw, check the chain is properly in place and at the correct tension.

• Protect your hands with a robust pair of gloves. Most of the tools we're featuring come with gloves, but there's always something to be said for researching and upgrading when it comes to such an important kit. Ordinary :a[gardening gloves]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/the-best-stylish-gardening-gloves/' }, although great for everyday use, are not protective enough for chainsaw use.

• Safety goggles or even a full face shield are an absolute must to shield your eyes from sawdust and other debris.

• All the mini chainsaws we're featuring boast a safety lock, usually in the form of a button. Get used to hitting that every time you stop a task so that the saw can't be accidentally activated.

• Most of these saws are designed to be used single-handedly. Be sure to keep your hand or finger behind any safety guard over the chainsaw's trigger.

• Put the chain guard baffle down every time you use the tool to reduce the amount of sawdust flying up towards you.

• Always use the saw horizontally, and always start a cut at the mid base of the blade, never from the tip as this can cause 'kick-back' and propel the tool towards your face.

• Follow maintenance guidelines as provided by the manufacturer, including oiling the chain if necessary, to keep your chainsaw in optimum working condition.

The 7 best mini chainsaws to easily give wood the chop

Once you've tidied up your garden with one of the :a[best lawn mowers]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/lawn-mowers/best-lawn-mower/' }, it can be frustrating if the grass still looks rough around the edges, which is where a cordless strimmer will solve your problems. It's not that you want to cut corners - you just can't get to them.

A strimmer will get exactly where your :a[electric lawn mower]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden-care/tools/best-electric-lawnmower/' } can't, helping to make your garden look pristine all year round without the need to get on your hands and knees to spend hours pruning the grass, brambles, or pesky weeds with your secateurs. More so, a cordless garden strimmer eliminates the need for extension cables, which can be a dangerous trip hazard in the garden. Lightweight, portable and affordable - make this handy grass strimmer your new best friend.

If there are nooks and crannies in your garden, or you're looking to neaten up the borders or edges and your :a[robot lawn mower]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/lawn-mowers/best-robot-lawnmowers-uk/' } can't quite finish the job, then a cordless strimmer will give your garden that extra bit of TLC. You can purchase cordless strimmers with a battery and charger or petrol-powered models, both have their own benefits depending on the size and amount of greenery you have in your garden.

We've researched the best cordless strimmers on the market and have put together our top picks that'll give you the freedom to trim your garden quickly, easily, and all whilst untethered by a cord. When selecting these products, we compared features, including the battery, weight, adjustable cutting head and interchangeable attachments. Scroll to the FAQs for further tips and advice about the features of cordless strimmers to assist your :a[petrol lawn mower]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/lawn-mowers/best-petrol-lawn-mowers-uk/' }.

## Best cordless strimmers UK {#h-best-cordless-strimmer-uk}

## Best cordless petrol-powered strimmers {#h-best-cordless-petrol-powered-strimmers}

## How we chose the best cordless strimmer UK {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-cordless-strimmer-uk}

All of these cordless strimmers have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered usability, performance and value for money in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching cordless strimmers to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

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