Bunny Guinness: My favourite gardening tools

Having hit the big 70, I am determined to maintain my garden with two days of work a week. One from me and a second from Dave, who helps me keep things in shape. The huge advantage in my favour is the massive surge in great tools and techniques, which reduce the time required from me.

Over the last 50 years of gardening, my favourite tools have changed dramatically. My biggest time saver is the robot lawn mower. I love almost all aspects of gardening, but starting mowers, cleaning spark plugs and emptying the box are all more of a chore than a joy. Their carbon footprint is also staggering.

Here I share the ten essentials categories and items I consider worth investing in for every gardener.

If you don’t like gardening in inclement weather, you are in the wrong clothes. The Genus Three-Season Gardening Trousers (£159) have built in kneepads, useful pockets and they are in a cut that allows for easy movement. They keep me snug but not sweaty and have transformed my attitude to gardening in all weather.

I also never garden without a hat to shield my face from damaging rays. On a hot summer’s day, it helps keep me energised rather than wilting in the heat. I love Niwaki’s camo hat (£24). It has a deep peak and is fully adjustable, plus it washes well. In winter, I often use a woollen hat with a built-in head torch. Ideal for working in the dark, you can often find one on Amazon or a local garage for less than £10. Just look for an LED light that is rechargeable.

I have chronic Reynaud’s syndrome, so have tried many gloves. For me, the best for wet, cold gardening are Toolant’s 100% Waterproof Gloves (£16.99). Available in several sizes, they have grip and they are touchscreen-compatible. Designed for working in deep freezers, they have revolutionised my winter gardening. For warmer months, I like Portwest’s A310. They come in many sizes, cost around 49p per pair, and allow you to have great connectivity with plants.