3 June 2025
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Adam Kirtland sings the praises of Oriental tools and plants
Over the years that I ’ve been gardening , I ’ve larn so much from so many people , but it ’s also place that enthuse us gardeners . location and country might give us inspiration in the form of the works we produce and the way we grow them , and produce lasting memories and connexion in the process .
Japan is one country , although I ’ve never been , that has give me break for mentation in my garden . So this effect I shall be share my pick of prick that are also pep up by Japan – along with a very especial industrial plant .
The hori - hori knife
This is a dick that seems to have rent the gardening world by violent storm and is arguably , I think , the single most utilitarian garden shaft you could ever have . ‘ Hori ’ think ‘ to apprehend ’ in Japanese so you ’ll be unsurprised that this is exceedingly helpful with those everyday digging tasks when you ’re on your knee , or work out at your enhance beds .
The hori - hori is also a mean bulb planter and it ’ll get you jazz down those Narcissus pseudonarcissus and tulip bulbs in autumn in no prison term ! Seeniwaki.comfrom £ 32
Nipponese hand hoe
Fatsia japonica
Another beautiful but functional tool inspired by Japanese designs is the single edge weed-whacker , also know as a Japanese manus hoe . While it might look clean unassuming , the wide-eyed pattern and lightweight handle allow for for effortless soaring across the control surface of your seam . I ’ve been using one for the retiring few years and it ’s become my go - to instrument for weeding declamatory beds , containers and trough . As with other Japeto tools , this come with their signature , adorable canvas bag for repositing when not in exercise . Seejapeto.co.uk , RRP £ 17.95
Hedge Shear 204
For smaller hedging prune jobs , or for pruning lavender or shrub , the Hedge Shear 204 from Okatsune is a peachy option . There are long option also usable , but the shorter handles on the 204 still give plenty of reach while leave a unspoiled level of control , so you may get to your plants from all slant . Although they cost perhaps slightly more than you ’d ordinarily spend on hedging shears , these are durable and will last you for many years . Seeokatsune.co.ukfrom £ 80
Fatsia japonicaanyone ?
No garden is unadulterated without a plant or two to add a touch of Japanese joyousness to your outer space . There are many available that raise the orient , such as acers and wisteria , but for a substantial statement industrial plant – why not seek a arresting evergreenFatsia japonica ?
Its healthy leaves that can grow to 15 in ( 40 cm ) or more and the works ’s large sizing adds something unique to those shady division of your garden . They ’re also rather fret - spare so are the ideal solution many garden . Seehillier.co.ukfrom £ 19.99
For more horticulture advice , tip and DIY projects , you could follow Adam on Instagram @viewfromthepottingbench
Fatsia japonica
