Bold, bright garden accessories for spring

Right, we’re officially sick of winter now! It does feel like there’s a change just round the corner – the spring flowers are raising their heads above the ground, and there’s definitely more daylight. We’re getting impatient, though – we want to see some colour in the garden NOW! We’ve gone out looking for the boldest, brightest, most colourful garden accessories we can find so that we’ll be ready as soon as it’s sitting-out weather – here’s what we found.

1. Floral Madness deckchair, Perkins & Morley

Step forward, Perkins & Morley – looks like you’ve had the same idea as us! This deckchair is covered in bright fabric taken from a watercolour painted by Jan Morley. The frame is made from oiled Merpauh wood and the sling from hard-wearing polyester canvas; providing a durable print and excellent protection in all weather conditions. UK printed and assembled, it costs £120 from Perkins & Morley. Matching outdoor cushions also available, prices start at £39.99.

2. Bohemian waterproof scatter cushion, National Trust

This beautiful design has been commissioned by the National Trust. The cushion is backed with a premium waterproof membrane, so that liquids simply run off the fabric. Suitable for year-round outdoor use, this cushion is also fully resistant to stains and UV rays. £64, available from Bridgman.

3. Valencia floral solar lantern, Lights4Fun

Pretty even before lit, this floral patterned lantern is sure to bring out the colour in your garden. Powered by solar energy, simply hang in a sunny spot and it’ll illuminate each evening. After a full day of full sunshine, you can expect 6-8 hours of illumination in the evening. The cover is made from nylon, so won’t spoil in wet weather. £12.99, available from Lights4Fun.

4. Floral gardeners’ gauntlets, Bradleys

Garden in style with these luxurious, lightweight gloves with cuffs crafted in English linen and leather. The long, floral linen cuffs are ideal for protecting your arms and the leather shields your hands from the elements. Perfect for all gardening tasks, whether summer gardening, or cutting the brambles in autumn. Handmade in Great Britain, each pair of gloves is unique and costs £27.95 from Annabel James. 

5. Blue bistro chairs, Garden Trading

This pair of foldable bistro chairs comes in a choice of colours, including this bright Lulworth Blue. Not just easy to store away, they’re perfect to have ready for when guests arrive. £60 for a pair, available from Garden Trading. 

6. Pina colada outdoor cushion, Penelope Hope

This cheerful pineapple print cushion is giving us hope that one day, not a million miles away, we might actually be sitting outside sipping cocktails in the sun. The cushion is made of a hard-wearing, heavyweight, water-resistant fabric that has been specially designed for outdoor use; it is easy to clean and won’t fade in the sun. £79, available from Penelope Hope.

7. Retro cross back four chair set, The Garden Furniture Centre

Although they look traditional, this table and chair set has tough but lightweight aluminium frames that will remain rust free when used outdoors. They’re coated with a tough lacquer paint in a variety of vibrant colours and are lightweight and very quick and easy to reposition. £499 for the set of four chairs and table, available from The Garden Furniture Centre. (Above and main image.)

8. Skye garden dining chair, Danetti

Plastic doesn’t have to be boring. Made from moulded polypropylene this Skye dining chair is wipeable and easy to clean, either with warm soapy water or an antibacterial spray if needed. It’s also lightweight and stackable. Available in a range of colours, including this sunny yellow. £65 each, available from Danetti.

9. Geisha garden parasol in purple, Norfolk Leisure

This bright purple parasol is guaranteed to give your garden or patio a wow factor this spring. It’s also available in taupe, lime, aqua and fushia and is made in Norfolk. £121 for the parasol only (base available separately), available from Cuckooland.

10. Turquoise ceramic garden mushroom. Sally Jane Originals

This colourful ceramic garden mushroom is handmade in Wales, using strong stoneware clay, then glazed and fired at a high temperature which means that it is completely weather-proof and can be left outdoors in all weathers and in all temperatures without risk of cracking, flaking or discolouring. The cap of the mushroom measures 15cm across; the stalk is about 31cm long. £25, available from The British Craft House. 

By Sara Walker.