Bunnings Magazine Spring 2023

T he magazine team

Editor Lisa Green

Associate editors Caroline Botting, Artemis Gouros (AU)

Art director Bridie Mahoney

Senior designer Carol Baldas

Style editor Samantha Pointon

Chief subeditors

Catherine Sanders, Frances Pearson

Senior subeditor Lorna Gow

Digital producer

Amanda Ghalaini Yacoub

Editorial co-ordinator

Abigail D’Souza

Production co-ordinator

Annie Villalta-Burgett

Junior accountant

Carina Law

Contributors Judie Siu, Shelley Tustin, Harriet Upjohn

Advertising sales Kerry McKenzie, Hawkhurst Media Services +64 27 5969979

Advertising production manager

Yulia McKenzie +64 21 969091

National advertising manager

Alek Jovanoski

Campaign manager Deanna Kane

General enquiries +61 3 8831 9777; bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au

Managing director

Nick Smith

Chief commercial officer

Fiorella di Santo

NZ general manager Sido Kitchin

Head of sales Annii Hirst

Head of content, Food & Homes

Gemma Sutherland

Head of audience intelligence

Catherine Ross

Finance controller Leslie To

Every effort has been taken to ensure instructions for DIY projects are correct. However, before you undertake any DIY activity, please ensure that you have the appropriate skills for the task at hand, use the correct tools and that you wear the appropriate safety equipment. Any professional installations must be undertaken by a licensed tradesperson. Editorial content is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for legal or professional advice.

Published by Medium

Rare Content Agency NZ Ltd. for Bunnings Warehouse, ABN 26 008 672 179,

Botanicca 3 – Level 2 East Tower, 570 Swan St, Burnley, VIC 3121, Australia. © 2023. All rights reserved.

For any queries or feedback, please call the magazine team on +61 3 8831 9777 or forward to the attention of Bunnings

Magazine Team, Botanicca 3 – Level 2 East Tower, 570 Swan St, Burnley, VIC 3121. Products featured in the magazine are on offer while stocks last. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Colours may vary slightly from images shown due to the printing process. Prices shown are Bunnings prices at the time of publication and some prices may vary in regional areas. Pricing is to be used as a guide only. This publication is not for sale.

SPRING

New order

Dream it

13 STYLE FILE

A bright and breezy springtime moodboard

14 A FRESH APPROACH

Enliven your outdoor and indoor spaces with a profusion of blooms and updated furnishings

23

BACKYARD BLITZ

Follow these expert tips for getting your garden shipshape and ready for warm-weather action

Plan it

28

IN THE MOOD

Explore sensory decorating to form a greater emotional connection with your home

36

45

HOMEGROWN HACKS

Discover the joys of your own fruit and vege crop

SPRING FEVER

Prep your garden and get planting and sowing

Update it

49 GRASS ACTION

Find out how to revive your tired winter lawn

53 BARBECUE LIKE A BOSS

Define your cooking style and shop great grills

57 PRESS REFRESH

Tick off your home’s exterior cleaning list

59 STORAGE SOLVED!

Declutter and destress with these savvy solutions

65 SCRUB UP Banish stubborn grime from pesky problem areas

71 MAKING MAGIC

Fabulous DIY projects for all abilities that will bring new life to your home, inside and out

79 TOP 5 GARDEN GADGETS

Time-saving tools that make yard work a breeze

Regulars

7 WHAT’S HAPPENING IN SPRING

News, special buys and great ideas 82 COOL CANOPIES

Create natural shelter with these shade trees

Welcome!

Spring is a time for renewal and fresh starts. And what better place to begin than in our homes and gardens?

As soon as we start to see trees greening up, it’s time for our family to transition from hunkering down indoors to heading outside and enjoying the sunshine!

With the season comes the urge to spruce up areas that need some love and attention. This issue is brimming with expert advice on decluttering,

reorganising and sparkling up our homes, inside and out!

The stunning shoot on page 14 shows you how to invite spring in, and also has a host of delightful DIY projects.

Gardening enthusiasts, rejoice! Labour Day weekend (Monday, October 23) is just around the corner and we have gardening pages blossoming with tips on all the tools you need, how to create beautiful lush lawns and cultivate a vegetable garden to save on grocery bills (page 36). Whether you have acres of land or a cosy city balcony, you’ll find inspiration to grow your own. Wishing you a joyful spring!

Tu meke

Do you like our new badges? You’ll spot them on the aprons of Bunnings Team Members who speak te reo Māori. The badges, featuring a tiki, are the work of design house Niwha Creative. A tiki is considered a taonga – just like te reo Māori –with a stepped Poutama pattern that has significant spiritual and educational meanings, symbolising levels of attainment, advancement and growth.

Bunnings is proud to have more than 100 te reo Māori-speaking Team Members across the country and we encourage the use of our national language by offering courses to expand the use of te reo Māori in everyday life.

Ready for anything

Earthquakes, cyclones, floods – we’ve seen first hand the devastating impact of natural disasters, so how prepared are you if one were to strike close to home? Bunnings and the National Emergency Management Agency (Te Rākau Whakamarumaru) are getting together to host a series of Get Ready events in all stores from October 16 to October 22, featuring all you need to know to prepare your home for a natural disaster, as well as a nationwide drill. A fun weekend workshop on October 21-22 shows how to build a ‘Grab and Go’ kids’ emergency contact board so little ones are ready, too!

SPRING INTO THE LONG WEEKEND

The Labour Day public holiday (Monday, October 23) is a good time to tackle a few outdoor jobs. But make sure you also factor in some downtime to relax with family and friends!

1 7 6 3 2 8 9

Take the smart path

5

You'll still need to get your hands dirty, but there's a new crop of digital technology and gadgets entering our gardens to make watering, harvesting and maintenance easier and more efficient. You can also use smart devices to control irrigation systems, check whether your soil is too warm or dry, or even to receive a frost warning. A robot lawn mower is another high-tech tool that can be controlled via a smartphone to autonomously cut the grass while you relax. Controlling garden lighting from a smart device is also available –lights can be turned on and off from anywhere, plus there’s the ability to set scenes and special effects in your landscape, all from the palm of your hand.

2 3 4 5 6

1

Marquee 3m cantilever umbrella in Beige, $98, I/N: 8902472

Marquee 1180mm x 790mm x 565mm timber bench, $149, I/N: 0259938

Sommersault children’s outdoor bench setting with umbrella, $79, I/N: 3191984 (available from mid September)

Mimosa ‘Eden’ 1800mm x 895mm kwila outdoor table, $545, I/N: 0266924, and 1500mm x 420mm bench, $227, I/N: 0266925

Lifetime ‘Craftsman’ 6ft/183cm picnic table, $399, I/N: 0372155

Northcote Pottery ‘Seville’ 31cm x 12cm bird feeder in Teal, $45.87, I/N: 0139013

Tuscan Path ‘Alfresco’ 41cm patio pond water feature, $299, I/N: 0271610

Mr Fothergill’s small bee and insect house, $22.98, I/N: 0074293

Marquee ‘Verna’ kids chair in Coral, $45, I/N: 0284747

The power to create some glittering after-dark magic is at your fingertips

1 Holman ‘WX1’ tap timer and wi-fi hub, $151.14, I/N: 0246021. 2 Holman smart moisture sensor, $57.05, I/N: 0246025. 3 Holman RGB wi-fi garden light controller, $239, I/N: 0189462. 4 Holman ‘Aspect Analyst’ wi-fi weather station, $342.49, I/N: 0131827. 5 Brilliant 36W DIY plug in smart garden light controller, $64.90, I/N: 0145080. 6 Essential SmartBright 70W 6650lm floodlight in Cool White, $117, I/N: 0389671.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Photography James Moffatt, styling Tilly Roberts.

GARDEN DIARIES

Sow seeds of summer crops in moistened seed-raising mix in a warm, sheltered spot such as a mini greenhouse. Once the seedlings have grown their second set of leaves, transplant them into a small container of potting mix. Plant out in the garden once the temperatures have warmed up.

Grow a crop of early season potatoes in a grow bag. Fill a third of the bag with goodquality potting mix, lay four or five potatoes on top and cover with

10cm of mix. Once the shoots are 5cm high, add another 10cm of mix. Repeat until bag is full.

Get on top of pests with an eco-friendly neem oil solution that will control bugs such as whitefly, aphids, thrips, mealybugs, caterpillars and leafhoppers without harming beneficial parasites and predators.

Invite beneficial pollinators into your garden by planting bright annuals that will attract their attention. Popular summer blooms include sunflowers, marigolds, zinnias and calendula.

Plant tomatoes once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a spot in full sun, dig in compost and tomato fertiliser and stake at planting time. Check out our recommended varieties below.

1 Saxon mini greenhouse with seed tray, $9.92, I/N: 2960182.

Prepare for the drier months ahead by installing a tank to collect rainwater from the gutter that you can use to water your garden*.

2 Mr Fothergill's potato grow bag, $19.86, I/N: 0387525.

3 Grosafe 'BioNeem' insecticide, $29.99/200ml, I/N: 0316805.

4 Assorted potted colour plants. 5 Hydrowater 250L water tank in Ironsand, $218.87, I/N: 8913245. 6 Garden Time tomato mix, $12.46/30L, I/N: 8909072. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

If you’re going to grow just one tomato plant, this sweet cherry-sized variety is pretty much fail-proof.

EARLY

The first tom of the season, dark red medium-sized fruit appears around 8-10 weeks after planting.

After applying fertiliser around edible plants, delay harvesting for a few days and rinse well before cooking and eating. If using products to deal with pests, diseases or weeds, or when handling compost or mulch, follow instructions carefully and wear gloves, a mask and suitable protective equipment. Store all garden chemicals out of reach of children and pets.

Ideal for hanging baskets and containers, it produces a prolific cascading crop of bright red cherry tomatoes.

An orange-fleshed variety that produces glossy, round cocktail-sized fruit with a distinctive orange scent.

Scan the QR code

For more on what to do in the garden during spring, go to bunnings.co.nz/gardendiaries

SWEET 100

GIRL

TUMBLING TOM

TUTTI-FRUTTI MANDARIN

STYLE FILE

FOR A SPRINGTIME FEEL, KEEP THE LOOK LIGHT AND BREEZY WITH SOFT HUES AND DELICATE PATTERNS INSPIRED BY NATURE

1 Verve Design ‘Lizelle’ table lamp, $70, I/N: 0455932 (available in stores from mid-September; globe sold separately). 2 Superfresco Easy ‘Scandi’ 52cm wallpaper in Green, $77.50/10m, I/N: 0171027† 3 Marquee ‘Edie’ relaxing chair in Green Bay, $99, I/N: 0352932. 4 HPM ‘Vivo’ coverplate in Pop Pink, $12.69, I/N: 4332032. 5 Superfresco Easy ‘Urban Floral’ 52cm wallpaper, $77.50/10m, I/N: 0171024† 6 Sylvan ‘Warwick’ 3" (76mm) pull in Brushed Brass, $9.59, I/N: 0039709.

7 Elho ‘Vibes Coupe’ 14cm indoor plant pot in Delicate Pink, $27.98, I/N: 0403455. 8 Northcote Pottery ‘Maxim’ 23cm drum pot in Green, $34.98, I/N: 0357840.

9 Brilliant ‘Cumbria’ 6W LED round wall light in White, $59, I/N: 0186169. 10 Superfresco Easy ‘Myrtle Geo’ 52cm wallpaper in White/Silver, $77.50/10m, I/N: 0079315.

11 Lotus Collection ‘Orchid’ 55cm artificial plant in Light Pink, $18.50, I/N: 0202204. 12 Mimosa ‘Suna’ 220cm x 97cm x 75cm teak dining table in Rustic Grey, $1,695, I/N: 0287106† (decorations not included). 13 Mondella ‘Resonance’ WELS 4-star 7.5L/min curved sink mixer, $106.34, I/N: 0220591 (suitable for all pressures).

14 Duratile ‘Terrazzo Classic’ 60cm x 60cm porcelain floor tile, $34.96/pack of 3 (1.08sqm), I/N: 0271126. 15 Foreno ‘E-Steel Square’ WELS 4-star 7L/min cold start sink mixer in Matte Black, $204, I/N: 0231297 (suitable for mains pressure). Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Dulux Okains Bay

Porter’s Paints Gusto

PPG Paints Lilac Lace

A fresh approach

CELEBRATE THE WARMER WEATHER AND INVITE THE JOYS OF SPRING INTO YOUR HOME

Photography BELINDA MERRIE Styling SAM VAN KAN

There’s a sense of excitement in the air as the days grow longer and new life begins to burst forth. Welcome the coming of spring by brightening your outdoor and interior spaces with lush plantings in fabulous pots, a profusion of blooms to colour your world and updated furnishings for alfresco entertaining.

If you’re the creative type, get your arts and crafts on with fun projects to upcycle plain items and put those leftover sample pots of paint to good use, or take up the tools to make timber pieces you’ll love for years to come.

THESE PAGES Philodendron ‘Shangri-La’, stock, maidenhair fern and hen and chicken fern in Northcote Pottery ‘Precinct Lite’ large garden trough pots in White, $154.40 each, I/N: 2831987. Saxon patio weeder, $12.98, I/N: 0242129, and patio trowel, $12.98, I/N: 0242128. Endeavor ‘Troopers’ womens gumboots in Black, $69/size 8, I/N: 0288710. Axton ‘Eco’ 75cm x 45cm coir mat in Natural, $19.97, I/N: 0286827. Cyclamen in Tuscan Path 20cm x 20cm glazed studded pot in Green, $26.98, I/N: 2860800. ‘Jasper’ hellebore in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 37cm x 37cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $79.98, I/N: 0252488. Primrose in Northcote Pottery ‘Patavium’ 16cm Italian terracotta pot in Greige, $7.49, I/N: 2833042. Cyclamen in Northcote Pottery ‘Primo Mod’ 28cm medium garden egg pot in Cream, $39.98, I/N: 2830107. Primrose in Northcote Pottery ‘Patavium’ 16cm Italian terracotta pot in Greige, as before. ‘Jasper’ hellebore in Northcote Pottery ‘Primo Mod’ 23cm small garden egg pot in Cream, $19.98, I/N: 2830106. Primrose and pansy in Tuscan Path ‘Ava’ 25cm x 25cm egg pot in Sage, $31.23, I/N: 0312605. Cyclamen in Tuscan Path ‘Ava’ 20cm x 20cm ceramic egg pot in Sage, $20.83, I/N: 0312606. Primrose in Tuscan Path ‘Ava’ 14cm x 14cm ceramic egg pot in Sage, $11.63, I/N: 0312607. Cyclamen in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 26cm x 26cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $34.98, I/N: 0252485. Cyclamen in Northcote Pottery ‘Patavium’ 16cm Italian terracotta pot in Greige, as before. Primrose in Tuscan Path 20cm x 20cm glazed studded pot in Green, as before. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Styling assistant Sophie Heyworth

ABOVE Sandleford 800mm x 700mm arch mirror in Black, $128, I/N 0339866. DIY doormat made using Axton 60cm x 40cm PVC backed coir mat, $5.98, I/N: 0171665. Jute ‘Bali’ 290cm x 190cm rug in Natural, $279, I/N: 0078717. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

MAKE IT!

Give a budget-friendly coir doormat bespoke style using test pots of paint. Simply draw the centre of your lines in marker pen, then apply two to three coats of paint in different colours (we used Dulux Ardmore/green, Ōtautau/pink, Pukekawa/ yellow, Tūrangi/lilac and Kellands Pond/navy) and a 20mm artist’s brush. Leave paint to dry after each coat.

FAKE IT!

Create a fabulous faux flower arrangement (right) using artificial greenery and blooms (choose from a selection in store or online). Form the foliage base first, then add layers of flowers of your choice, securing with twist ties.

Faux can fade, so position away from direct sunlight. Dust regularly with a soft, dry paintbrush

Arrangement secured using Jack PVC twist tie in Green, $4.60/30m, I/N: 3320939. Paint colours may vary on application.

Sandleford 800mm round mirror in Black, $118, I/N: 0339861. (Reflected in mirror) Verve Design rattan drum lamp shade, $79, I/N: 0021463. (On shelves, from top) Prayer plant in pot, for similar try Eden ‘Stonelite’ 18cm sphere planter, $16.98, I/N: 0086677. Silver fittonia in Lotus Collection 14cm x 12cm plain ceramic egg pots in Cream, $8.98, I/N: 0258686, and Clay, $5, I/N: 0376196. Zebra plant in Lotus Collection 14cm x 12cm plain ceramic egg pot in Cream, as before. Mimosa wicker butterfly chairs in Black, $179 each, I/N: 0244162. Lytworx colour changing LED flameless candle sets with remote, $27.15/ each pack of 3, I/N: 0341456, and battery operated flameless light candle sets, $27.48/each pack of 4, I/N: 0118301. Jute ‘Bali’ 290cm x 190cm rug in Natural, as before.

Flameless candles are a safe way to cast a flickering light for evening ambience

Introduce subtle touches of colour to a serene, monochrome scheme

PAINT IT! For modern art on a DIY budget, sketch colour-block designs on paper – you’ll find lots of inspiration online. When you are happy with the scale, mask off a canvas with painter’s tape and apply two coats of acrylic (we used test pots in Porter’s Paints Sundance, Petal Pink, Timberline and Irish Linen), leaving to dry after each coat. Work in sections, pulling off tape at an angle while still tacky and letting dry completely before masking and painting the next colour block.

Brilliant ‘Harbour’ DIY plug in rattan pendant, $173.25, I/N: 0089054 (globe sold separately). DIY artwork made using Jasart ‘Academy’ 20" x 16" x 1½" (508mm x 406mm x 38mm) canvas, $14.58, I/N: 3173218. DIY lampshade made using Arlec ‘Dusk’ mix & match medium barrel lamp shade in Cream, $24.73, I/N: 0160254. Jute ‘Bali’ 290cm x 190cm rug in Natural, $279, I/N: 0078717. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

MAKE IT!

Kick off spring with sunny DIY projects for all around your home. Dabble in modern art and learn how to make a floral lampshade (see above), plus create a benchtop herb stand, a coloured glass panel and a nifty upcycled tool rack (see right). Instructions start on page 71.

Keep oft-used garden tools easily accessible on a stylish stand made from a recycled timber pallet

BELOW Keeping fresh herbs handy will help elevate your cooking and bring a touch of spring greenery indoors

When planting up larger pots, apply the ‘thrill, fill, spill’ principle with the tallest specimens in the centre, surrounded by medium height, then trailing plants around the edge

TOP LEFT Thai basil, marjoram, flat-leaf parsley, mint, garlic chives and sage in Northcote Pottery 110mm Italian terracotta squat pots, $3.49 each, I/N: 2863583, and 39cm Italian terracotta collection saucer, $22.92, I/N: 2833077. TOP RIGHT Daffodil, philodendron ‘Shangri-La’, maidenhair fern, hen and chicken fern and bridal veil in Northcote Pottery ‘LA’ 45cm egg pots in Marine, $82.84 each, I/N: 0361834. LEFT (through pallet) Cyclone medium round mouth shovel, $69, I/N: 0013513, and multi surface weeder with long timber handle, $44.48, I/N: 0147458. (On front) Holman decorative hose hanger, $19.56, I/N: 3121029, and ‘ColourDip’ 12mm garden hose in Papaya, $25/12m, I/N: 0384005. Pinnacle 50mm hanging hooks in Matte Black, $3.12 each, I/N: 0184804. Cyclone ‘Grip Snips’ pruning tool, $15.48, I/N: 0242123, and stainless steel bulb trowel, $16.50, I/N: 3361000, potting scoop, $16.50, I/N: 0242127, fork, $10.97, I/N: 3360486, weeder, $10.97, I/N: 3360999, and trowel, $16.50, I/N: 3360998. Philodendron ‘Shangri-La’ in New Zealand Wheelbarrows ‘Constructor’ wheelbarrow, $259, I/N: 0157577. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own.

Introduce fragrant flowers and herbs into every possible space and revel in the simple pleasures they bring

YOU CAN MAKE IT! FOR ALL DIY PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS, SEE PAGE 71

Keep in mind…

n Position fire pits well away from combustible structures including fencing, decking and overhanging trees. Always check your fire pit manufacturer’s safety and set-up advice.

n Burn dry, sustainably forested timber. Choose hardwood and don’t burn driftwood, wood that has been painted, pressure-treated or stained, plywood or particle board, as it can release toxins into the air.

n Check with your local council if and when there are fire bans in your area or if you need a licence to light an open fire. Ensure lit fires are never left unattended, supervise children and pets at all times and have a hose and/or fire extinguisher nearby.

Maintain the floral theme throughout with a sweet table centrepiece

Build a frame for festoon lights to define your outdoor zone

THESE PAGES (On deck) Mimosa ‘Woolamai’ round market umbrella, $169, I/N: 3192696, in 20kg timber umbrella base, $89, I/N: 3190287. Mimosa ‘Eden’ 1800mm x 895mm kwila outdoor table, $545, I/N: 0266924, and 1500mm x 420mm kwila outdoor benches, $227 each, I/N: 0266925. Philodendron ‘Shangri-La’, stock, maidenhair fern and hen and chicken fern in Northcote Pottery ‘Precinct Lite’ large garden trough pots in White, $154.40 each, I/N: 2831987. Magnolia ‘Inspiration’ in Tuscan Path ‘Maverick’ 36cm pot in Mint, $84.98, I/N: 0357845, and 54cm x 52cm glazed studded pot in Green, $128.40, I/N: 2860804. Primrose in Northcote Pottery ‘Jardin’ 28cm planter in Forest Green, $42.08, I/N: 0096193. Cyclamen in Tuscan Path 31cm x 31cm glazed studded pot in Green, $56.38, I/N: 2860801. (On gravel patio) Mimosa ‘Malibu’ 1 seater lounge, $349, I/N: 0177346, and corner lounge, $1,699, I/N: 0177349. DIY festoon light stands made using Lytworx connectable double filament LED indoor/outdoor party lights in Warm White, $65.98 each pack of 10, I/N: 0341457, and Tuscan Path ‘Ava’ 30cm x 30cm egg pots in Sage, $39.63 each, I/N: 0312603. Mimosa ‘Alto’ fire pit with wood storage, $148, I/N: 0229246. (In fire pit) Solid Energy ‘NZ Premium’ split fire wood, $17.68/9.5kg, I/N: 0401829, and (under fire pit) ‘Roundwood’ firewood, $14.87/6kg pack of 9, I/N: 0357280. Three kings vine in Northcote Pottery ‘Primo Mod’ 35cm large garden egg pot in Cream, $64.98, I/N: 2830108, and Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 44cm x 44cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $114.98, I/N: 0252489. Piggyback plants in Tuscan Path 20cm x 20cm glazed studded pot in Green, $26.98, I/N: 2860800, and Moda 30cm faux sandstone planter, $29, I/N: 0118234. All plants sold separately. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

bunningswarehousenewzealand | bunnings | bunningsnz | bunnings.co.nz

BACKYARD BLITZ

HERE ARE SIX WAYS TO BOOST OUTDOOR AREAS AND GREET THE NEW SEASON IN STYLE

Words JANE PARBURY

Like your first swim after winter, those initial forays into the backyard in spring can be a bit challenging. But with longer, milder days in store, now is the time for action, and there are loads of simple things you can do to get your outdoor zones primped and ready for action.

2Make room for entertaining

Transform outdoor gatherings with a dedicated zone – perhaps a fire pit and benches for casual get-togethers, or a dining table and chairs for a more formal approach. Choose a spot not too far from your kitchen or barbecue area, but not too close to avoid smoke drifting over your guests. Define the area with decking or pavers and a pergola – or even a cantilever umbrella wrapped with fairy lights – and give it a sense of enclosure by placing it in a corner or by adding screening on two or three sides. Position lighting for both atmosphere and extended time in the garden.

3

1Add a focal point

Bring beauty to a bland backyard with a striking feature, says horticulturist Tammy Huynh (@leaf_an_impression). “Try a decorative pot planted with colourful annuals, such as violas or cineraria or, for a more permanent display, go for a feature tree, such as citrus, magnolia or dwarf crepe myrtle,” she says. “Burying the legs of a garden arch in large pots – filled with potting mix and topped with flowering annuals – and training a climber like star jasmine or hardenbergia also makes for a lovely garden feature. Position a bench or table and chairs nearby to turn it into a destination spot.”

Break out the broom

The easiest way to refresh any space in or around the home is to clean it. Get rid of cobwebs on walls and gutters with a cobweb brush, give every area a good sweep, then grab a water blaster to deal with stubborn dirt such as mould, moss and algae on the deck and paved areas. But use the right wand for the task – softer timbers and paint can be damaged by a concentrated jet of water.

Photography Sue Stubbs, styling Samantha Pointon; (top, right) Alex Reinders. Tammy Huynh leafanimpression.com.au

ABOVE Keep outdoor furniture looking good by wiping with a damp cloth and mild detergent

“For an instant pop of colour, mass plant annuals in clusters along the front of a garden bed”

Chloe Thomson, horticulturist

4

Create a hideaway

Disguise an ugly area or enhance privacy by installing a screen, says horticulturist Chloe Thomson (@beantheredugthat). Timber trellis, plastic and aluminium are great screening options. Cover with climbers to lift your greenery quota. Alternatively, fill a row of trough planters with tall-growing plants or climbers. “If you’ve got a support structure like a wire fence, or you can add one, my favourite faster growers include the climbing vines hardenbergia or pandorea and clumping bamboo,” adds Chloe.

5

Update the lighting

Lighting can bring a sparkling new look to your space for balmy evenings – and it needn’t add to your energy bill. “Solar lights all the way!” says Chloe. “I love outdoor lights with a warm white glow – it’s softer and more welcoming than bluish white light. Strings of festoon lights always look amazing looped around outdoor dining or entertaining spaces, and they cast a surprising amount of light. Solar path lights are a must for safety. Use the ones on spikes to illuminate paths or steps where you can, or look for ones that will mount onto a hard surface.”

6

Accessorise away!

Refresh your space with a few well-chosen pieces. New seat pads and/or scatter cushions will breathe life into your outdoor lounge furniture, while you can distract the eye from a tired setting with pretty pots or ornaments. In an enclosed alfresco area, repurpose a decorative garden screen as wall art. String a hammock nearby for a resort feel and pop solar lanterns around the area for after-dark ambience.

n Store all garden chemicals out of reach of children and pets.

n Wear gloves and a mask when handling potting mix, mulch or compost.

n Make sure any lighting used outside is suitable for outdoors. Any hardwired electrical fixtures must be installed by a licensed electrician.

Keep in mind...

Place pots of fragrant herbs where they’re easy to snip – and sniff!

Photography Gap Photos/Robert Mabic.

A faster way to a better finish

Achieve inspirational results on large surfaces and fine details alike, with Wagner paint sprayers

Wagner paint sprayers give you a pro-quality finish on all your DIY paint jobs.

WELL COVERED

For larger surfaces, from fences to weatherboards, the Control Pro 150 airless sprayer is both affordable and powerful. Its 5.5L paint hopper can handle water- or solvent-based paints, and its airless (HEA) technology ensures 55 per cent less overspray. The feathered pattern delivers a smoothly overlapped finish, while lower pressure and trigger force minimise user fatigue.

EASE OF APPLICATION

What could be easier than drawing paint straight from the tin? The Control Pro 250 airless sprayer’s powerful 550W motor and 9m hose make short work of transforming long stretches of fence or even your entire home.

CONQUER ANY EXPANSE

The Control Pro 350 delivers 1.5L per minute to handle big jobs, with a 15m hose to give you the reach you need. It has an airless piston pump powered by a 600W motor, with tips for wall paint and thin materials. The telescopic cart accommodates a 20L bucket of solvent- or water-based paint.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

The high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) Flexio 690 gives you control, precision and ease of use for small to medium projects. It sprays at just 4-12psi pressure, with a 600ml pot and Click & Paint system that lets you switch between colours and materials in seconds by swapping the spray attachment. Best of all, the adjustable flow rate and revolutionary i-Spray attachment allow you to conquer broad surfaces and finer details with one unit.

1 Wagner ‘Control Pro 250’ (HEA) airless paint sprayer, $1,095, I/N: 1662823. 2 Wagner ‘Control Pro 350’ (HEA) airless paint sprayer, $1,471, I/N: 1662824. 3 Wagner ‘Control Pro 150’ (HEA) airless paint sprayer, $572, I/N: 0098286. 4 Wagner ‘W690 Flexio’ paint sprayer, $355, I/N: 0216878.

Painting uneven outdoor surfaces is easy with Wagner

A paint sprayer helps you achieve a smooth surface on small, fiddly projects

IN THE MOOD

CREATE A HOME THAT NURTURES YOUR SENSES EVERY TIME YOU WALK THROUGH THE DOOR Words CAROLINE BOTTING

For a cheerful and welcoming living room, combine an eclectic colour scheme with versatile lighting, fresh blooms and soft-underfoot floor rug

Avanilla candle is burning, the ‘open house’ playlist is on and lights are set to a warm glow... yes, there’s a reason why estate agents try to engage the senses when selling a home. It forms an emotional connection to a space, and the same applies to your place. Sight, smell, sound and touch all have a profound impact on how we feel in our living spaces. If you’re looking to enhance your personal sanctuary, here’s how.

Light touch

Just as restaurants carefully curate lighting to enhance the dining experience, lighting in our homes should be well considered. It plays a crucial role in creating atmosphere in the kitchen and dining space, according to Giorgia Manenti at Kaboodle Kitchen. “Incorporating wall sconces or pendant lights over a central island bench can set the tone for the space, whether it be a soothing atmosphere for family dinners or a moody bistro-like vibe for entertaining friends,” says Giorgia.

Tailor lighting choices in other areas to suit their functions, advises interior designer Hayley Dryland (augustdesign.co.nz). “Having warmer light creates a feeling of relaxation,” says Hayley. ”Being able to dim lighting in your living room creates a cosy mood. Cool lighting is good in the bathroom – it wakes you up, and is great for putting on make-up – or in the kitchen where you need to see clearly for a task at hand. “Offices often have cool lighting for greater focus,” she adds.

Wonder walls

Wallpaper can help set the visual tone of a room, impacting its aesthetic and atmosphere, says Superfresco Easy trends and design expert Paula Taylor. “The colour, pattern and texture of wallpaper can rouse specific emotions and moods,” she says. “Bright and vibrant patterns can create a lively and energetic atmosphere, while muted and soft colours promote relaxation and calmness.”

Textured wallpapers can also stimulate touch and create ambience, she adds.

ABOVE Verve Design ‘Lizelle’ tripod floor lamp, $171, I/N: 0261996 (globe sold separately). Superfresco Easy ‘Kintsugi’ 52cm wallpaper in Rose Gold, $77.50/10m, I/N: 0106457. Aglaonema in Lotus Collection 43cm x 34cm ceramic indoor pot with stand in White, $65, I/N: 0200336 (plant not included). Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Share your space with living plants to help purify the air and nurture wellbeing

Boutique 52cm ‘Safari Midnight’ wallpaper, $109/10m, I/N: 0106466

ABOVE Jute ‘Hayman’

220cm x 150cm rug in Natural, $199, I/N: 0275968.

HanWood 8mm water resistant laminate flooring in Gessami Oak, $42.16/sqm, $113.40/ pack of 8 boards (2.69sqm), I/N: 0187927. Brilliant ‘Cuba’ DIY plug in rattan pendant in Whitewash, $53.98, I/N: 0089050 (globe sold separately). Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

A green embrace

Bringing nature indoors through plants not only boosts the visual appeal of a space but also promotes mental wellbeing and relaxation. Plants have a soothing effect and can even help purify the air, removing toxins and pollutants. Don’t limit yourself to green leafy plants; flowers have long been known to uplift the spirits and improve mood.

Texture speaks volumes

Touch affects how we perceive a space, with studies demonstrating a clear link between differing wall textures and how large or small a room feels. At home, consider your sensory experience when you step from a timber floor onto a soft plush carpet, suggests Hayley Dryland, or the contrast between a metal surface and a comfortable sofa. “Texture can transform a space from flat to fab,” she says. In working spaces such as kitchens, the choice of finishes on surfaces can evoke sensory responses, adds Giorgia Manenti.

“Timber-look cabinetry with a woodgrain texture adds warmth and cosiness, while also providing a tactile experience,” she says. “Mixing materials and finishes can create visually striking kitchens, such as combining matte and gloss surfaces or warm and cool metals for added depth and interest.”

Sound advice

Acoustics greatly influence the ambience and comfort of a space and it’s important to consider how sound travels and is perceived within a room.

“An echoey room can feel cold and unwelcoming, while a well-designed acoustic environment can create a warm and inviting atmosphere,” says Hayley. Surfaces, furniture, floor coverings and wall decorations all play a role in sound absorption and reflection. Textiles such as carpets, curtains and sofa coverings help reduce noise from other spaces.

Thicker or textured wallpapers can also aid in sound absorption, reducing echo and

“To get the balance of a room right, don’t let any one sense overwhelm the others”

Hayley Dryland, interior designer

A soothing, all-white palette is given warmth and textural interest with timber accessories

Ultra-modern Kaboodle Kitchen cabinetry in Mostaza and Feta Whip is countered by the organic look and feel of benchtops in Hazelnut and Calcutta Gloss

PPG Paints Lunar Eclipse is a soft green/grey that helps create a soothing effect in bedrooms

‘Samara’ table lamp, $29.05, I/N: 0123748. Superfresco Easy ‘Louis’ 52cm wallpaper, $57/10m, I/N: 1662652. Mimosa ‘Butterfly’ wicker chair, $179, I/N: 0098280. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

improving the overall acoustic environment, adds Paula Taylor. In addition, careful furniture placement can help optimise sound. Creating a layout that aids communication and minimises sound bounce can boost the function and comfort of a room.

In spaces like the kitchen, where noise can be a challenge, thoughtful design can make a difference. “Incorporating an inbuilt rangehood, for example, can help reduce unwanted noise and maintain a peaceful atmosphere, especially in open-plan layouts,” says Hayley Dryland.

Colour your world

As any interior decorator knows, colours have the power to influence our emotions and set the mood in a room. Dulux colour specialist Davina Harper advises, “When choosing paint colours, consider the desired atmosphere and the emotional impact you wish to create.” Cool colours like green and blue promote a sense of calm and relaxation, making them ideal for bedrooms and spaces where tranquillity is desired. Warm colours like red, yellow, and orange, on the other hand, are energising and stimulating, ideal for bringing vitality to living areas.

“Trust your instincts when selecting colours,” says Rachel Lacy at PPG Paints, “and envision how they’ll contribute to the feel of a space.”

HUE ARE YOU?

Choose from these paints to set the scene in your home

Whites form a timeless, simple backdrop.

Blues can cool down north-facing rooms.

Greens bring a sense of the outdoors in.

Browns evoke a feeling of decadence.

Greys help bring other accents together.

Reds add a sense of drama to any space.

Pinks & purples introduce a luxury feel.

Oranges can be great for formal areas.

Yellows create a happy, bright aura.

PPG Paints Milan Blue

PPG Paints Lunar Eclipse

Dulux North Head

Dulux Sandfly Point Dulux Woods Creek

Dulux Rotorua

PPG Paints Red Squirrel

ABOVE Verve Design

Porter’s Paints Dragon’s Eye

Dulux West Plains

Experiences of the world at home

Bring globe-trotting adventures right into your kitchen with a beautiful new range of colour trends from kaboodle

Travel is back, and kaboodle kitchen’s latest trends range is inspired by some of our most-loved destinations. “International travel can influence the materials, colours and patterns used at home,” says stylist and designer Jono Fleming. Let’s explore the emotional drivers and colours behind an Insta-worthy kitchen.

TRENDS TO LOVE

The kaboodle trends range features six new door colours across four individual trends.

INDULGE

Indulge imagines elegant interiors with a palette that draws on European opulence and old-school charm. Celebrate brings fun and optimism with a vibrant colourway reminiscent of South American fiestas. Embrace is a restful blend of natural hues, for an urban sanctuary inspired by the Zen tradition. At the heart of Connect are earthy tones seen in desert city streets, fostering connection through memorable experiences shared with family and friends.

For a statement-making space, try new Paprika. This deep red brings richness, perfect with stone-look benchtops and gold accents. Nostalgic pink Candy Floss works beautifully with stone-look surfaces and matte black hardware. Stunning together, and when teamed with the strong tones of Berry Blue.

AFFORDABLE STYLE

Kaboodle is known for quality, DIY-friendly cabinetry – if you are handy on the tools, a brand new kitchen could be just days away. Bring your own look home with doors and panels from the new trends range or from the extensive existing collection; add a stunning benchtop; and check out the vast selection of handles in hues from brushed nickel, brass and gold, to shiny chrome and matte black, for the ideal finishing touch.

CELEBRATE

What could be livelier than Mostaza, a gorgeous mustard yellow bringing the visual flavours of bustling South American street markets to the heart of your home? This bold hue looks wonderful teamed with warm timber tones, fresh, clean whites and matte black hardware.

“Inspired by a desire for positivity, we recognise that our surroundings have a profound impact on us”

JONO FLEMING, INTERIOR DESIGNER

mostaza

paprika candy floss

Access the latest in all things kitchen and home design with the kaboodle edit magazine. Get your free copy today!

EMBRACE

Natural tones evoke a sense of tranquillity and Edamame, a wonderful, muted green, is no exception. Pair it with timber or stone-look benchtops, or team with cabinetry in dark brown Walnut to introduce cosiness and texture. Go handle-less and keep surfaces clear to enhance the clean, minimalist feel.

CONNECT

“The earthy, clay tones of Tagine will encourage reflection and wonderment, creating a truly engaging environment,” explains Jono. Perfect for a relaxed, retro-inspired look, try it with textured timber, stone-look benchtops and matte black hardware.

tagine

walnut edamame

DISCOVER THE MANY BENEFITS OF GROWING YOUR OWN FOOD

Homegrown

hacks

Words RACHEL CLARE

Nurturing, harvesting and preparing your own produce is inherently fulfilling – and helps to ease grocery bills. While a large-scale vegetable patch is only a dream for those of us short on time and space, there are big gains to be had from small plots and pots. Just be smart about the fruit and vegetables you choose to grow.

Grow smart

Deciding what to grow is your first step, according to self-sufficiency expert Sheryn Dean. “Look at what you eat that you can easily grow, or look at what you can easily grow that you want to eat,” she says.

You also need to consider how much growing space you have. While you may really love cauliflower, in the two or three months that it takes you to nurture three cauliflower from seedling to harvest, you could grow and harvest three crops of bok choy that will stretch much further than three or four meals. Or get the best of both worlds and interplant the space between your slower-growing crops with fast-growing greens.

Waipu-based market gardeners and foodies

Jen and Gus Ross of Left Fields suggest bagged greens that are pricey at the checkout are often the easiest to grow. “Delicate salad greens such as lettuce and rocket are perfect to grow at home,” they say. “Kale and silverbeet are

ABOVE AND RIGHT

A vegetable garden can be pretty and productive, whether it’s a rustic collection of leafy greens and climbers, or organised in neat rows, like this backyard food bowl

‘cut and come again’ and will yield for several months as the plant continues to produce after the outer leaves are harvested for meals.”

Don’t forget about the importance of adding flavour to your food either. Fresh herbs are simple to grow inside and out. Try growing those frequently used in recipes, such as parsley.

Dir t cheap

As long as you choose an area that gets at least six hours of full sun a day, you can grow food. If you’re starting a new vegetable garden in existing garden beds, remove the weeds, add compost and sheep pellets and start planting. You can also convert an area of lawn into a productive vegetable garden. Use a spade to scuff off the grass, turn the soil lightly, incorporate compost and well-aged manure and plant directly into that.

If you have a heavy clay soil or your available growing space is concrete or paved, raised beds are a great option. Wooden raised beds will cost a fair bit to construct and fill*, so if you’re trying to save money, opt for affordable steel or composite models that you can purchase for less than $60.

Using compost to help fill a raised garden bed is a great idea as well, says Scott Bromwich from Daltons. “Change out one-third of the mix with compost,” he suggests. “Also, you don’t actually have to fill the entire raised

bed with soil,” he adds. “A half-filled raised garden will still provide the same crops as a full one. Do this in stages – fill it halfway, plant your crops for the season, then next season add another layer of mix and plant out again.”

ABOVE Short on space and looking for a budget, sustainable option?

Upcycle a pallet to hold a vertical garden, making sure it is secured to the fence for stability**

Inspired to grow your own edibles? bunnings.co.nz/beginners-guidevegetable-garden

LEFT Colourful poppies can help attract pollinators to your garden to help with fertilisation

(above and opposite top) Juliet Nicholas, (right) Alex Reinders; (opposite) Getty Images. *Do not use treated pine for raised garden beds. **Avoid using methyl bromide treated pallets identified by the ‘MB’ stamp.

Potted edibles

As long as you choose the right container, you can grow most edibles successfully in a pot or anything you can drill drainage holes into.

“Plants growing in pots and containers have limited access to nutrients and water,” says Scott Bromwich. “Therefore, it’s crucial to select the right growing media.” For containers of 50 litres or more, he recommends using garden mix. For smaller containers, he advises using a high-quality potting mix for optimum growing conditions in terms of nutrients and drainage.

Seed fund

When you compare the cost of a $2 packet of seeds containing 100 seeds to a six-pack of seedlings that costs $4, it’s easy to see how growing from seed is more cost-effective. You just need to be prepared to put in the mahi (work) of nurturing plants from seed.

Gus and Jen Ross recommend installing

a small greenhouse to provide a warm, light space for seed-raising. You can also save seed from plants that have fruited and flowered. “I sow short rows of mesclun mix and rocket fortnightly or so, and once they get past perfect, I leave them to flower,” says Sheryn Dean. “Then among all the beneficial insects dancing around, I harvest the flowers for my salad, too, then leave some to set seed for the next cycle.”

The only way is up

If your available growing area is a sunny patio or balcony, take advantage of vertical space. Cucumbers, beans, sugar snap peas and different berry vines can all be trained along strings, trellis or growing frames. You can also grow salad greens and strawberries and herbs in vertical planters with self-watering systems. Some are designed to be attached to a wall or you could try freestanding models in frames.

ABOVE Sweet, purple and lemon basil are the perfect companion plants for pots of tomatoes

BELOW The stable environment of a greenhouse offers protection to plants from weather and pests, and can help extend the growing season

Photography (greenhouse) Getty Images, (basil) Gap Photos/Gary Smith. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Fill the fr uit bowl

Even if you grow just one fruit tree in your garden, it will help lower your grocery bill. As they can take several years to come into production, they should be considered as a longerterm investment. An apple tree might cost $50, but after five years it should produce about 10kg per year (and every year for at least 20 years). So, at the current price of $5 per kg, its harvests will pay back the investment.

Apple trees are a good choice because they’re generally diseaseresistant and can be stored for a few months. Meyer lemons are hardy and fruit year round, and easy-peel Satsuma mandarins

– look for varieties Miho, Kawano, Silverhill or Okitsu – are other great options. Create a harvest calendar with a rough estimate on when each tree will produce fruit. With careful planning, it’s possible to harvest almost year-round.

Keep in mind…

1 Holman ‘GreenWall’ pixel pot vertical garden, $89, I/N: 2941494 (plants not included). 2 Williams Trellis Specialist 1500mm x 900mm square planter box with trellis, $219, I/N: 0414563†. 3 Garden Time potting mix, $11.57/40L, I/N: 0327212. 4 Scotts Osmocote ‘Seed Raising & Cutting’ growing mix, $12.98/25L, I/N: 8912735. 5 Mr. Fothergill’s ‘Microgreens’ growing tray, $10.87, I/N: 2961686 (seeds not included). 6 Our Place ‘Obelisk’ 1.4m plant trainer in Black, $31.95, I/N: 0054767. 7 Ezy 1.5m tomato cage in Red, $9.95, I/N: 0049221. 8 Saxon 120cm x 90cm x 30cm raised garden bed in Black, $54, I/N: 0246818 (plants not included). 9 Zealandia premium assorted flower and vege punnets 10 Fountain Products 697mm x 655mm x 425mm raised garden bed in Charcoal, $35.83, I/N: 0176623. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Choosing the right apple tree for your garden depends on the climate, the amount of space and the quality of your soil

n Wear gloves and a mask when handling potting mix, mulch and compost.

n Store all garden chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.

WhatIsHumate?

•Humate is the world's oldest and most concentrated natural form of compost, made from thousands of years of organic forest residue. It is up to 20x more potent than regular compost, so a little goes a long way, and it's BioGro Certified!

•Absolutely ideal for all soils or heavy clay, where it adds valuable carbon to the soil and reduces leaching of those vital trace elements.

•Humate dramatically improves root growth, flowering and fruiting volume of all types of plants and is very easy and non-toxic to apply.

•The carbon in Humate is a form of carbohydrate that feeds the fungi and bacteria currently in the soil, as well as the worms that create a wonderful biological diversity

•Suitable for all flowers, roses, lawns, vegetable gardens, pot plants and fruit trees.

•Our slogans are "Spend a little more but use a whole lot less!" and "If it grows, it just grows better with humate!"

Skellerup Red Band gumboots are handcrafted using durable natural rubber. For over 65 years we’ve been producing Red Bands – they are truly tried and tested.

Available in Junior, Children, Women/Youth and Mens sizing.

SPRING FEVER

IT’S THE SEASON WHEN THE GARDEN COMES ALIVE! TAKE INSPIRATION FROM MOTHER NATURE AND GET YOURS GROWING

Words CAROLINE BOTTING

Maintain a lemon tree with sufficient food, water and pest control and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious harvest!

Cyclone ‘Power’ leather garden gloves, $23.75/medium, I/N: 0033033. Fiskars ‘Plus’ 24mm bypass pruner, $38.88, I/N: 0241666. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Whether you’re craving freshly harvested produce or a vaseful of cut flowers, now is the time for green thumbs to swing into action. In spring, as soil temperatures increase, growth speeds up (notice the resurgence of weeds!), says gardening writer Rachel Clare.

“Early spring, around Labour Day, is when it’s warm enough to plant summer crops like tomatoes, beans and zucchinis,” she says. “Late spring is a beautiful time in the garden when roses, foxgloves and other flowering plants come into bloom.”

Equipment

Holman ‘EzySpray’ 3L pump-free garden sprayer, $59.86, I/N: 0338598

Spear & Jackson timber county garden fork, $29.98, I/N: 0193360

Saxon timber D-handle garden spade, $18.61, I/N: 3350798

Atlas Trade 14 tines braced garden rake, $37.81, I/N: 0197065

NEW SQUEEZE

Tomatoes and citrus fruits are both useful staples and spring is the perfect time to get them into the garden. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot to plant both and prepare the soil with compost and sheep manure. A special citrus mix will help fruit and flower development, likewise a tomato-specific fertiliser. Both plants do well on small balcony areas as long as they are watered well and have good drainage. “Always stake tomatoes when planting, and loosely stake young citrus trees for the first year or so,” says Rachel.

Aqua Systems 7.5m soaker hose, $8.55, I/N: 8902770

Soil improvers

0260997

planting and digging tool, $349/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 0090723

Saxon 160L compost bin, $139, I/N: 0241589

0519090

Scotts Osmocote ‘Compost’ premium soil improver, $13.21/40L, I/N: 8912730

Seasol ‘Advanced’ hoseon twin pack seaweed solution, $22.89/2L x 2, I/N: 2962264

Daltons ‘Garden Time’ 30L strawberry mix, $12.46, I/N: 8909070

days and rinse well before cooking and eating. Store all garden chemicals and products out of the reach of children and pets.

Fiskars aluminium hand trowel, $9.43, I/N: 0833153

Lynn River recycled gardening gloves, $10.42/ medium, I/N: 0264559

All plants sold separately. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Wear gloves and a mask when handling compost. After applying fertiliser around edible plants, delay harvesting for a few

McGregor’s alloy body by-pass secateurs, $14.98, I/N:

Saxon 50L garden cart, $115, I/N: 2970786

Nylex fitted wall mount or freestanding hose reel with 20m hose, $59, I/N: 3130796

Scotts reusable garden waste bag, $12.49, I/N:

Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V 150mm brushless cordless

Pots

Northcote Pottery ‘Karachi’ 45cm x 32cm terracotta planter, $42.90, I/N: 0274509

Planters

Tuscan Path ‘Dante’ 55cm drum pot in Grey, $168.90, I/N: 0357800

Tuscan Path ‘Maverick’ 24cm pot in Green, $39.68, I/N: 0357843

Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 35cm cylinder pot in White, $149.90, I/N: 0252506

Capi 60cm x 40cm anthracite rib outdoor plant pot, $189, I/N: 0086531

Holman ‘Greenwall’ benchtop vertical garden, $49.98, I/N: 2941495

Accessories

Saxon 120cm x 90cm x 30cm raised garden bed in Black, $54, I/N: 0246818

Pinnacle 950mm x 800mm x 350mm raised mobile garden planter in Charcoal, $68, I/N: 3321764

Backyard Farmer modular raised garden bed planter kit, $149, I/N: 0382523

Kelburn large planter, $157, I/N: 0409421

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

I/N: 2870691

Nylex ‘Alpine’ 750ml trigger garden sprayer, $6, I/N: 0273731

A gardening gem, climbers not only offer handsome flowers and foliage, but also have the remarkable ability to wrap themselves around almost any structure. This makes them a marvellous choice for beautifying bare fences, walls and entrances. Spring is a great time to plant climbers, says Rachel Clare. “If you’re after an evergreen with a lovely scent, star jasmine is a relatively easy-care climber that always looks good and produces flowers throughout spring and summer,” she says. “Native Clematis paniculata, with its star-shaped white flowers that attract bees and butterflies, is ideal for archways and verandas.” For a romantic vibe, try climbing roses or, suggests Rachel, wisteria. “This twining deciduous climber is covered in hundreds of racemes of fragrant purple or white flowers in spring.”

Northcote Pottery ‘Primo Miami’ 60cm x 52cm x 52cm bird bath in Forest Green, $143.97, I/N: 0290710

Jack 1000mm x 300mm arched garden trellis, $15, I/N: 0373005

McGregor’s 145mm home and garden thermometer, $4.98, I/N: 0497335

Green Lane ‘Peek A Boo’ 900mm x 600mm decorative wall art mirror, $129, I/N: 0360474

Jack wall plant stand, $125.92,

GRASS ACTION

TRANSFORM YOUR WINTER LAWN INTO A LUSH CARPET OF GREEN

Words JANE

Spring is the ideal time to give your lawn the love and attention it needs to thrive. As temperatures rise, the soil begins to warm, creating favourable conditions for grass to grow. From aerating to mowing, tackling bare spots and providing proper nourishment, a little effort now will ensure your grass looks its best.

Get some air

Aeration is a critical step in maintaining a healthy lawn. Over time, soil becomes compacted, hindering the movement of air, water and nutrients to the roots.

Gary Town from Yates says wet soil gets compacted easily. “Your lawn needs to catch up from a saturated winter season – right when it wants to green up with lush spring growth,” he explains. “So when conditions start to dry out, penetration of moisture and nutrients down to the grass roots is compromised. This means your lawn

will benefit from aeration or spiking to set it up for a lush spring and summer.”

Aeration involves creating small holes in the soil to enhance the penetration of air, water and nutrients, says Scott Bromwich from Daltons. “Buy or hire a lawn aerator, or use a larger garden fork. All you need to do is insert the fork into the soil to a depth of around 10 centimetres at intervals of 10 to 15 centimetres across your entire lawn,” he says.

Mow like a pro

Cutting your grass correctly is key to its overall health. Start by ensuring your lawn mower blades are sharp and set the mower height to leave the grass no shorter than 2.5cm. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing weed growth and promoting deeper root development.

Aim to remove only the top third of the grass blades during each mow. Additionally, vary the mowing pattern each time to prevent the grass from leaning in one direction, and avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day to minimise lawn stress.

“Regular mowing is needed to keep the lawn attractive and even, and also to stimulate grass growth,” says Scott. “How often you mow depends on the grass growth rate – it can be once or twice a week in spring/early summer.”

Plug the gaps

Bare patches in a lawn are unsightly and can provide an opportunity for weeds to take hold. Remove any dead grass and loosen the soil in the affected area. Rake the surface to remove debris and level the ground before over-sowing with a seed variety that matches your existing lawn –there are products that contain both lawn seed and fertiliser. Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist until the new grass is established.

Feeding time

Proper nutrition is essential for a healthy lawn. And spring, says Sue Edwards from Seasol, is the critical season to feed most lawns as they wake from winter dormancy. “Lawns are like us; they need regular consistent feeding,” she says. A specific lawn fertiliser is essential.

Take action now so you can enjoy an expanse of healthy turf this summer

WRIGGLESWORTH Photography JULIET NICHOLAS

“Not only does fertiliser encourage strong grass growth and root development, it also lowers the pH of the soil, creating conditions that are more favourable for grass than weeds,” says Scott Bromwich. He also suggests regular feeding: “Established lawns should be fertilised at three to four weekly intervals, from October until Christmas (avoid summer months when lawns are heat stressed) and begin again in March until the end of April. It is critical the lawn is well watered after each application of fertiliser.”

Scratch the thatch

While not a disease, thatch can look unsightly. It is the layer between the grass roots and foliage, consisting of dead fibrous material. “Over time, thatch layers can build up and reduce moisture and nutrient penetration into the soil,” says Scott. “Your lawn can quickly develop diseases if it is too saturated, doesn’t drain well or have enough aeration at your grass roots.”

De-thatching is best done in spring/ early summer. “Regularly lightly scour it with a rake or attach a de-thatcher to your lawn mower,” says Scott. Then apply a lawn fertiliser and water well.

Fade the shade

Moss can be a problem on wet lawns, especially in winter as it’s caused by a

COMMON PROBLEMS

Fungal diseases that cause bare patches include brown patch, dollar spot, fusarium and red thread, says Nikki Shaw-Loiseau from Kiwicare. “The first thing you need to do is kill the fungus and stop its spread,” she says. Once treated, aerate your lawn and apply a lawn fertiliser to adjust the pH of the soil, making it harder for the fungus to return.

combination of excess water and poor sunlight. Lessen its impact by improving your lawn’s drainage, says Scott. “You can also enhance sunlight by thinning out large trees and removing any unnecessary structures that are shading the lawn,” he says. “You could also try spreading iron sulphate onto the moss-infected area and watering it in. As the weather warms up the moss should slowly disappear.”

PESKY PESTS

The most common lawn pests in New Zealand are grass grub and porina caterpillar, says Gary Town from Yates. “These destructive nasties can be devastating in different ways: grass grub chews on grass roots while porina grazes on grass above ground.” The effects can be severe, beginning with dead patches and ending with large areas of stripped bare soil. Armyworm can also cause bare patches and, if left untreated, can be particularly destructive in a very short time. “If your lawn isn’t thriving and you see lots of birds pecking at the grass, it’s likely you have a grub infestation,” says Gary.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. If using products to deal with pests, diseases or weeds, always read the label, follow the instructions carefully and wear suitable protective equipment. Store all garden chemicals and products

Learn how to give your grass a fabulous finish: bunnings.co.nz/ trim-lawn-edges

(From left) Kiwicare ‘LawnPro Protect’ insecticide, $29.89/600g, I/N: 0078180. Kiwicare ‘LawnPro Smart Patch Mix’ lawn seed mix, $19.89/600g, I/N: 8911355. Yates ‘Grub And Porina’ granular insecticide, $36.54/750g, I/N: 0446421.

out of the reach of children and pets.

Cyclone 3 prong lawn aerator, $89.98, I/N: 0359851

“To improve drainage, fork the ground to reduce soil compaction, level out any hollows and apply gypsum”

Nikki Shaw-Loiseau, Kiwicare

(From left) Kiwicare ‘LawnPro Fungus Control for Lawns’ fungicide, $25.98/200ml, I/N: 0123251. Kiwicare ‘LawnPro Mossclear’ moss killer, $19.75/200ml, I/N: 0203437. Daltons ‘Lawn Patching Gold’ 4 in 1 lawn repair, $19.98/4L, I/N: 0263030.

Gorgeous grass

A lush lawn completes a home. Yates has the solution for top turf

Anyone who has sunk their toes into cool grass on a summer’s day knows the value of a lawn. As well as its luscious feel under bare feet, it’s a stage on which family memories are made, from wobbly first bike rides to backyard soccer and barbecues with friends.

CARE FACTOR

Mowing and watering are grass fundamentals, but really optimising your lawn means feeding it nitrogen and iron, the key nutrients it needs, plus waging war on weeds, such as Onehunga weed, clover, dandelion and thistles. Enter Yates® Weed ‘n’ Feed ® , the fuss-free combination solution.

FAST & EASY, JOB DONE

Yates® Weed ‘n’ Feed ® is specially designed to bring out the best in New Zealand grasses, including ryegrass and fescue lawns. If moss has taken over in your lawn, choose Yates® Weed ‘n’ Feed® Mosskiller & Fertiliser,

which is specially formulated to kill off moss and prevent regrowth.

SPRAY OR SCATTER

There are three easy options to apply Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed. The ready-to-use hose-on pack is ideal for large areas of lawn. The bottle clicks onto your hose and includes a handy on/off switch to help prevent waste and save water.

For smaller lawns, choose Yates® Weed ‘n’ Feed ® Concentrate – it’s ideal for application with a watering can or garden sprayer. Or there’s Yates® Weed ‘n’ Feed ® Granular (best choice for kikuyu), which you scatter across your lawn like seed, then water in after two days – it gives you more control, ideal for treating patches of weeds. It’s a handy solution for awkward areas that aren’t easily accessible with the hose.

Yates’ dual-action products let you spend less time worrying about your lawn and more time enjoying it.

1 Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed® hose on lawn weed killer, $27.94/4L, I/N: 0114242. 2 Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed® granular lawn weed killer $38.92/12.5kg, I/N: 0303080. 3 Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed® concentrate lawn weed killer, $13.94/1L, I/N: 0325152. 4 Yates Weed ‘n’ Feed® mosskiller lawn weed killer, $43.94/6kg, I/N: 0119805.

Scan the QR code for a free lawn care guide, or visit yates.co.nz/lawn

BARBECUE LIKE A BOSS

FIND OUT WHAT’S SIZZLING HOT IN OUTDOOR COOKING

Words SHELLEY TUSTIN Photography CATH MUSCAT

Bringing together your favourite people for an alfresco cook-up is one of life’s great joys. Read on to discover the barbies best suited to the chief griller in your household.

What’s new in barbecues?

Bunnings barbecue buyer Guy Davies says add a few accessories – from a rotisserie kit to a pizza stone – and there’s virtually nothing you can’t cook on a barbie!

On the fuel front, charcoal and wood pellet smokers are enjoying a rebirth, according to Guy. “Customers are trying out ‘low and slow’ cooking styles,” he says. Smart technology is bringing modern convenience, too. “In-built bluetooth/wi-fi components allow you to see on your phone the temperature within your barbecue, so you can do other activities while it cooks,” says Guy.

Def ine your style

To pick the perfect barbecue, consider the space you’re in, how many people you need to feed and your cooking style.

THE PICNICKER For this outdoor lover, the top priority is portability – the barbecue needs to be small, lightweight and ideally with handles or a carry bag. Remember to consider the size of the gas bottle. Charcoal grills also tick the box – check if you need a grill plate, a solid flat plate, or both.

THE QUIET ACHIEVER For this modest outdoor cook, the focus is on serving up the sizzle fast. Convenience is important, so a gas barbecue will get the tick.

THE GADGET GURU This chef loves trying new things. They’re a tech head at heart, so consider bluetooth controllers for compatible grills or a smart meat thermometer, which will alert their smartphone when the steak is perfectly cooked.

THE ENTERTAINER A six-burner barbecue is the go-to for this social cook, says Guy, and they might also love a rotisserie grill or offset smoker for slow-cooking hunks of meat. An outdoor kitchen is the next step.

THE MASTER CHEF Flexibility is the key for this keen cook, who loves to experiment with even heat, temperature control and many cooking surfaces. Gas barbecues are great but pellet smokers let the cooks really show off their cooking prowess, says Guy. “The Pit Boss and CharGriller brands are perfect for this.”

OUTDOOR PIZZA OPTIONS

Pizza ovens make for a fun gathering. Guy’s top choice is Matador’s woodfired pizza oven for its soaring temperatures, even heat distribution and size. “This oven can cook multiple pizzas consecutively, making them the go-to option for serving a large crowd,” he says. If seeking a speedy option to satisfy pizza cravings, Guy suggests the Jumbuck pizza box. “The quick-to-heat ceramic stone makes baking and cooking easy,” he says. Wanting to settle your pizza cravings anywhere? Jumbuck’s portable pizza oven produces rapid heat in no time, says Guy.

Whether your idea of the ultimate spread is sausage on bread or a gourmet masterpiece, there’s a barbecue to suit

The Picnicker

Matador ‘Radiant’ charcoal kettle barbecue, $299, I/N: 0038000

The Quiet Achiever

Jumbuck double burner portable gas barbecue, $259, I/N: 0173343

Jumbuck portable gas pizza oven, $249, I/N: 0447757

Matador ‘Radiant Move’ portable charcoal barbecue, $149, I/N: 0173341

The Gadget Guru

Jumbuck ‘Astro’ 4 burner gas barbecue, $549, I/N: 0256465

Matador ‘Conquest’ 4 burner gas barbecue, $848, I/N: 0344343

Jumbuck ‘Ascent’ gas pizza oven, $499, I/N: 0256532

Matador ‘Palladium’ 4 burner gas barbecue, $999, I/N: 0173249

Jumbuck digital meat thermometer, $17.98, I/N: 3171708

The Entertainer

Gasmate gas smoker with glass window, $399, I/N: 3180899†

The Master Chef

Matador extendable barbecue hood light, $42.98, I/N: 3171336

Inkbird 4 probe smart wireless barbecue thermometer, $109.29, I/N: 0149046

Ozito 2000W electric charcoal starter, $49, I/N: 0014130

Jumbuck ‘Stardom II’

4 burner gas outdoor kitchen, $749, I/N: 0256477

Matador ‘Palladium’ 4 burner gas barbecue kitchen, $1,999, I/N: 0173253

Matador woodfired pizza oven, $699, I/N: 0177380

Jumbuck barbecue smoker with offset sidebox, $199, I/N: 0066301

Char-Griller ‘Competition Pro’ offset smoker, $698, I/N: 0088369

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Pit Boss ‘Navigator’ pellet smoker, $999, I/N: 0172778

Char-Griller ‘Deluxe’ barbecue, $349, I/N: 3180388

†Available to order at the Special Orders Desk. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for setting up and using your barbecue. Keep children and pets away from barbecues and gas cylinders.

Get sorted for spring

Decorating, organising and personalising your space is a breeze with the renter-friendly Command™ range

Decor

Gone are the days when you had to hammer nails or screw hooks into walls, doors or cupboards to display artworks or create hanging space for everyday items. With Command™ adhesive strips and hooks, the task has been made not only quick and easy but also damage-free. When the time comes to remove them, these stick-on superheroes come away cleanly, leaving no holes, marks, cracked plaster or sticky residue. Little wonder the Command™ range has become a renter’s best friend!

PICTURE PERFECT

Whether it be a bold statement piece, collection of photos or gallery wall, a display of pictures and artworks is a great way to personalise your living space. Command™ picture hanging strips make light work of the job, with no tools needed. Ideal for hanging anything from canvases to framed photos and small decorative items, the strips provide a secure, strong hold on

almost any smooth, clean surface and come in a range of sizes and weight specifications up to 7.2kg.

HANDY HOOKS

When it comes to organising your place, Command™ hooks are a lifehacker’s dream. Whatever it is you want to hang – coats, bags, belts, kitchen utensils, keys, jewellery, you name it – there’s a hook for the task. They hold up to 3.7kg and, as with the rest of the Command™ range, fixing them in place is super-simple.

TIDY THAT TANGLE

Looking for a smart vertical storage solution for the laundry or utility area? The Command™ broom gripper is designed to hold most indoor mops and brooms weighing up to 1.8kg. With the Command™ brand, making your place feel like home and finding space-saving solutions that won't damage walls and risk your bond has never been so easily achievable.

Command™ hooks and broom grippers are ideal for organising cleaning tools

Command™ adhesive hooks let you solve storage problems by taking to the walls

1 Command medium white adhesive picture hanging strips value pack, $17.11/ pack of 12, I/N: 8908940. 2 Command adhesive white narrow picture hanging strips, $20.89/pack of 12, I/N: 0180142.

3 Command white mixed wall adhesive hooks value pack, $30.80/pack of 22, I/N: 0180143.

4 Command jumbo white adhesive wall hook, $4.56, I/N: 0311704. 5 Command 1.8kg broom gripper, $6.68, I/N: 0309197.

Scan here for further inspiration, and for more information, visit 3m.co.nz

@commandanz

@commandanz

pieces can be hung, removed and moved without leaving a mark on walls

PRESS REFRESH

MAINTAIN AND GAIN WITH THIS PRE-SPRING OUTDOOR TASK LIST

Words CAROLINE BOTTING

Aclean and sound property exterior does wonders for its kerb appeal and value. Regular upkeep also protects a home’s structure, while safeguarding those within. As the weather warms up, here are six jobs to include on your maintenance to-do list.

Pamper paths and drives

Winter is a prime time for weeds to spring up in cracks. Leaving them can result in bigger issues, such as potholes. Get rid of weeds by hand or with a suitable weedkiller, use a waterblaster to remove mould and moss, and repair any cracks.

Hit the decks

Damp, dirt and leaves take their toll on outdoor surfaces during the colder months. To bring them back to their best, replace damaged boards and upgrade loose fasteners. Sweep decks thoroughly, scrub with a deck cleaner, rinse, then apply a stain or oil.

To clean stone patios, give the area a good scrub with a pH-neutral soap, then rinse with water.

Step to it

Giving outdoor steps a once-over will improve their appearance and ensure they’re safe to use. Creaking or cracking treads or balusters can lead to rot, and therefore safety risks. Metal and concrete stairs can be waterblasted to remove dirt and debris, while timber requires the same maintenance as decking (see above).

Get to the guts

Avoid expensive repairs and play it safe by cleaning gutters. Clogged gutters can cause issues to a home’s

structural integrity, rot to fascia boards, seepage into your roof area and a fire hazard. Choose a dry, sunny day to don gloves and set up a secure ladder to empty gutters of any debris. Install gutter guards to make the job easier.

Shine bright

Whether they’re in the garden or at the front door, outdoor lights need to be maintained biannually. Insects, dust and dirt can all play havoc with electrics. Exposed wires are dangerous and must be fixed by a licensed electrician. If lights are wired in, turn off light switches and circuit breakers. Replace blown globes, and wipe down lenses and light exteriors. Remove encroaching plant growth and ensure cables are covered and secured. Only lights with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating are suitable for outdoor use.

Stay safe and secure

To avoid close-ups of creepy crawlies on your home security cameras, a regular clean is key. First unplug or switch off any wired equipment. Avoid cleaning with a brush or broom, as this can scratch lenses or dislodge fixtures. Instead, use a secure ladder and wipe down the equipment with a damp cloth. Get a licensed electrician to replace any damaged cables.

Sweep away dirt or leaves before scrubbing and oiling or staining a timber deck

SHOP

1

For safety, choose a ladder with non-slip feet and maintain three points of contact (such as one hand and both feet) at all times 3 4 2

1 Oates long handle deck scrub brush, $17.90, I/N: 4460246. 2 Simple Green

‘House Wash’ outdoor cleaner, $29.97/2L, I/N: 0400848. 3 Ryobi

1800W 2030PSI pressure washer, $349, I/N: 0372399. 4 Malloy 1.3m-2.4m telescopic water brush, $21.90, I/N: 0302785. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

If your loungeroom is peppered with old picture hook nail holes. If small cracks down the hallway drive you crazy. Nordsjö Professional Rapid Repair Filler is easy to apply and ready to paint over in only 15 minutes. Nordsjö knows how. Now you do too.

Storage pain points – we’ve all got them, and most households are probably struggling with the same clutter bombs. Read on for the most common storage complaints and ways to tame the chaos –without breaking the bank.

1Under the stairs clutter

That empty space under the stairs relentlessly attracts loose shoes, toys and school bags. There is a range of options to turn this disorderly corner into a dedicated storage space, depending on your budget. Lachlan King of Flexi Storage suggests Clever Cube storage units in ascending sizes. “Pair them with a range of colourful and practical inserts for hidden storage,” says Lachlan.

Modular strip and bracket systems are the next level of DIY solutions. This option is ideal if you want an evolving space that can be adapted to your needs over time.

Professional organiser Chelsea Smith of The Organising Platform suggests enclosing the under-stair area with hinged doors or panels that blend in with the surrounding walls. “This can be useful for storing larger items, or those you don’t frequently need to access, such as suitcases,” she says.

If space and budget allow, this dead area can be transformed into your home’s most exciting storage secret – convert it into a cellar, add a desk and shelves, or install cupboards to corral the kids’ craft clutter.

2Kids’ room toy-nado

We Insta-polled Bunnings

followers and 41 per cent said the house only stays tidy for one hour after cleaning. The likely culprits? Toys

These DIY shelves are great for storage and add a sweet, handmade touch to the kids’ reading nook

SCALLOP SHELVES

Cut 3mm plywood• to 600mm x 100mm, trace around a jar to draw semicircles, then cut curves with a jigsaw. Sand cut edges and wipe away dust. Apply primer and two coats of acrylic paint, leaving to dry after each. Apply timber adhesive to long edge, clamp to front edge of a 600mm floating photo shelf and let dry. Install shelf using supplied fixings suitable for your wall type.

– from both kids and pets. To better manage this chaos, Chelsea advises implementing a rotation system.

“Store some toys out of sight and periodically swap them with the ones currently in use,” she says. “This keeps the selection of toys fresh and exciting.”

You could also try using a similar system for books. To tackle piles of art, put them on display (see opposite for one way to make use of old frames).

To tame toys, use separate tubs for different types, and opt for low storage that kids can easily access to encourage them to pack things away on their own. “Flexi Storage Clever Cube units make great shelves and can be paired with colourful inserts to brighten up your child’s play area,” suggests Lachlan.

3 Pantry shambles

Start by culling any expired items and using up duplicates. This will instantly create more room. Next, group the remaining items into categories so they’re easier to find.

Then it’s all about making the most of every bit of space. “Invest in storage baskets, turntables and shelf risers to maximise your pantry space,” says Chelsea. Clear, stackable containers are useful for dry goods and small food packets, while baskets are great for loose vegetables. Make the most of vertical space with adjustable shelves and undershelf baskets, and don’t forget wall and door space, says Lachlan. “Wall strips can even be installed on the back of your pantry door with over-door

“When evaluating under-stair space, be aware of limitations like low ceilings and irregular shapes”

Lachlan King, Flexi Storage

• Timbers vary by region; contact your local store for further information. When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety gear and work in a well ventilated area. Chelsea Smith: theorganisingplatform.com.

KIDS’ ART GALLERY

For best use of space, combine height adjustable shelves with drawers of varying depth

hooks, then you can add wire baskets for storing spices and other small items,” says Lachlan King.

Once your pantry is in order, ongoing maintenance should be simple. “Practise a first-in, first-out system to avoid food waste,” says Chelsea Smith. “Then schedule regular pantry maintenance sessions to keep it organised and functional.”

4Messy linen cupboard

First off, be brutal! “Consider donating anything that hasn’t been used in the last 12 months to free up space,” says Lachlan. “You’ll find yourself back in the same situation in a few months’ time if you just rearrange the mess you already have.”

Categorise your linens – bath towels, beach towels, pillowcases –then decide how you want to store them. “Small boxes and drawer dividers can offer an easy solution

for keeping smaller items organised,” says Lachlan. He suggests rolling beach and bath towels to help maximise space and improve visibility. “Then place them in wire baskets to help keep them from unrolling, while not obstructing visibility and allowing for air circulation,” he adds. Spare blankets, duvets and pillows are space hogs, so minimise their volume by compressing into vacuum bags and stash on high shelves out of the way.

5Entryway obstacles

Tripping over ‘stuff’ dumped near the front door of your home? Use that pile of bits and pieces, whether shoes, bags, umbrellas or all of the above, to guide you in designing the ideal solution for your family. Keep in mind the size of your space as well. If there’s room, add a bench seat. “This serves as a convenient spot for putting on and taking off shoes,” says Chelsea. “Place baskets on shelves or under the bench to contain smaller items like gloves and scarves. Then label each basket or bin to easily locate and access items when needed.”

Utilise wall space, too, such as hooks for coats, or a floating shelf with a bowl for keys. “Hang a mirror in your hall as a functional and decorative element,” suggests Chelsea. “This allows for a last-minute check before heading out and can make the space feel more open and inviting.”

SHOP 1

3

2

Gather an assortment of picture frames. Remove the backing boards and glass panels. Clean frames, then prime and paint in the same colour (sample pots will do, or use leftover paint from other projects). Use Velcro dots to attach bulldog clips on the wall inside the frames, then position your kids’ artworks in the frames, swapping them regularly. 5 4

6

7 8

1 Flexi Storage ‘Decorative Shelving’ 600mm floating photo shelf in Oak, $13.50, I/N: 0127431. 2 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 146cm x 76cm x 39cm 2 x 4 compact storage unit in Oak, $139, I/N: 0054054.

3 All Set stackable storage tray, $8.99/ set of 3, I/N: 0134761. 4 Inabox 19L home storage tub with lid in Natural, $16, I/N: 0098199. 5 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 370mm x 330mm x 330mm woven insert in Silver, $13.50, I/N: 0082380. 6 All Set large plastic storage box, $10.50, I/N: 0134758.

7 Flexi Storage ‘Home Solutions’

3 mesh basket frame kit in White, $145, I/N: 0168744. 8 Ezy Storage ‘Sort It’ 8L storage container with 6 deep cups and insert tray, $14.89, I/N: 0048956. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

If you store cleaning products in the linen cupboard, group in an easily accessible basket or box

Glitz it good!

There’s something deeply satisfying about having a sparkling clean home, where every surface gleams and even germs have been banished. An impossible dream? Not so with the Glitz range.

Take Glitz Glass Cleaner. It’s perfect for giving windows, mirrors and glass shower screens a streak-free clean with just a spritz and wipe, but this multifunctional marvel can also tackle chrome, stainless steel, tiles, porcelain and laminate. That means you can use this versatile product all around the house – from your kitchen cupboards, sinks and appliances to all your bathroom surfaces.

Glitz Goo & Stain Remover is an absolute must for your cleaning armoury. Not only will it remove your three-year-old budding artist’s crayon masterpiece from the living room wall, this citrus-based product will also deal

with labels and stickers, wax, scuffs, soap scum, tape, ink, oil and grease. On really tough spots, leave for two to five minutes before wiping off. Plus it can be used as a pre-wash stain remover!

Glitz Spray On Wipe Off gets stuck into dirt and grime on benchtops, laminate cupboard doors, walls and more. When you’re looking to annihilate germs, this cleaner has antibacterial properties for a truly thorough result.

Glitz Calcium Scale Rust is a readyto-use product that effectively removes calcium stains, lime scale and rust stains from baths, sinks, toilets, cement, chrome, metal, shower heads, even tea and coffee pots.

Glitz Pine Disinfectant removes stains and grime, plus it’s antibacterial. It can be used on sinks, toilets, drains, garbage bins, floors, walls, showers and benchtops, and in the laundry, nursery and general household areas.

bunnings.co.nz/ brands/g/glitz

A spritz with Glitz is all it takes to banish dirt and grime from a multitude of surfaces

1 Glitz ‘Glass’ cleaning spray, $7.29/750ml, I/N: 4470487. 2 Glitz ‘Goo & Stain Remover’ cleaning spray, $15.79/500ml, I/N: 4474293.

3 Glitz ‘Spray On Wipe Off’ antibacterial cleaning spray, $7.29/750ml, I/N: 4470486.

4 Glitz ‘Calcium Scale Rust’ cleaning spray, $13.50/750ml, I/N: 4470494. 5 Glitz ‘Pine Disinfectant’ cleaning spray, $7.29/ 750ml, I/N: 4470492.

For a spotless home to be proud of, choose Glitz cleaning products

There’s a Glitz product to target anything from grease and scum to rust

S crub up

SET A NEW CLEANING STANDARD WITH THESE HANDY HYGIENE HACKS FOR FORGOTTEN SPACES

Words SHELLEY TUSTIN

You may be no slouch in the housework department, with a weekly roster that is actually followed. But in every home there are hidden corners that quietly gather dust, dirt and worse. Give these out-of-sight or hard-to-reach areas an annual clean and start the spring season with a home that’s fresh from top to toe.

Grimy glass

Washing windows is an oft-avoided chore, but there are worse glass surfaces in the home. The shower screen can easily get out of control, with mineral deposits forming an almost impenetrable film. An abrasive cleaning product, such as Simple Green shower glass restorer, can bring it back to new,

Photography Sue Stubbs, styling Hazel Bondoc. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

says Jason Walsh of Simple Green. “This product is used to remove soap and water mark stains on shower screen glass, which is a big issue for a lot of households,” he says. “But when used with a dry cloth it can also clean baked-on oven grease and fat from glass oven doors.” It’s suitable for woodburner heater glass doors, too.

Crusty cabinets

The kitchen might look pristine, but the tops of the cabinets can tell a different tale. If there’s a gap between the cabinets and the ceiling, it doesn’t take long for this space to develop a coating of dust and cooking grease. For a job like this, you need a serious product, like Simple Green all-purpose cleaner concentrate. “This product can be custom diluted using water for anything from heavy duty to light cleaning around the home,” says Jason. Use a little more of the concentrate for kitchen grease and dust and for any other seriously grimy spots, and dilute it further for ordinary, everyday cleaning tasks.

Mould woes

High humidity and rain mean mould may be hiding where you’d least expect it. As well as in wet rooms, mould might be blooming behind mirrors or furniture, under mattresses or in cupboards – anywhere there’s minimal air flow. If you discover mould, never try to dry brush it, as this releases spores into the air and can make the problem worse. Instead, try using white vinegar and a microfibre cloth. Or if vinegar won’t cut it, try a mould-killing cleaner, ensuring you follow the directions carefully and air out the room thoroughly.

Fuzz y fans

If you’ve never looked at the top of your fan blades, you’re in for a shock –they’re likely sporting a fur coat of dust. If they’re particularly fluffy, try this trick: spray the inside of a retired pillowcase with a mild cleaning solution, pop the case over a fan blade and wipe it clean, keeping the dust inside. Maintain your fan’s dust-free status with a quality duster. Michael Palm at cleaning product supplier Oates recommends

Dust and grease trap

using a premium duster to avoid spreading dust around the home. “The Oates wool duster attracts and traps dirt for a thorough clean and includes an extendable handle to help dust hard-to-reach places,” he explains.

Gr ubby walls

Dust and fly spots multiply on walls and ceilings and make even the tidiest home look dirty. Microfibre cloths are fantastic for cleaning walls with just water – whenever you’ve got a spare 10 minutes for cleaning, dampen a microfibre cloth and spot-clean marks,

concentrating on door frames and corners where fingerprints gather. And to clean a whole wall or ceiling in no time at all, here’s an invaluable hack: use a microfibre flat mop!

Musty mattresses

You spend a third of your life on your mattress, so you want it to be free of nasties like dirt, dust mites and dead skin. Give your mattress the TLC it deserves by stripping the bed and vacuuming thoroughly. Sprinkle over a layer of bicarbonate of soda, which absorbs moisture and odours,

Dishwashers need cleaning, too!* Put a glass measuring cup with two cups of distilled white vinegar on the top rack and run a normal cycle without detergent or dishes

Green cleaning

Care for the environment and your home at the same

with brand-new products from Simple Green

Winter is hard on the exterior of your home, but your cleaning products don’t need to be. Simple Green’s brand-new range of outdoor cleaners aims to care for the health of your family and pets while building a greener tomorrow.

GREEN BY NATURE

You can wage war on grime yet protect your budding spring garden. Simple Green products are non-toxic and environmentally safe, so they won’t impact your garden and lawn. Made in New Zealand, even Simple Green bottles and labels are 100 per cent recyclable.

EASY PEASY

Simple Green products are easy to use and simply work well. The new outdoor range has a clip-and-go attachment that connects to most garden hoses. There’s no need to premix the product into other spray bottles – a two-litre bottle makes up to 40 litres, with the container controlling the dilution ratio. The range includes adjustable spray settings to reach hard-to-access areas.

TOP-TO-BOTTOM CLEAN

The brand-new Simple Green range features a cleaning product for every outdoor surface. Reach for Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner for all the outside areas of your home, such as grubby furniture and slippery paths. Say goodbye to stubborn dirt and unsightly moss and mould build-up with its powerful formula that deep cleans while actively inhibiting moss and mould regrowth.

Maximise the spring sunshine in your home with Simple Green Exterior Window Cleaner

The job no-one loves is so much easier with a high-reach sprayer control, so you can wet, wash and rinse for a streak-free finish on exterior glass with minimal effort.

For more information, scan the QR code or visit bunnings.co.nz/ simple-green

Simple Green House Wash targets the tough stains that build up on your home over winter: mould, mildew, dirt, soot and more. Just spray it all away, leaving you with a fresh facade. Finally, Simple Green Deck & Fence Cleaner effortlessly lifts away dirt and stains from fences, decks or outdoor structures leaving them bright, clean and mould free.

Easily connects to your hose for a fast and simple set-up

Four convenient spray settings suit every task at hand

1 Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner, $29.97/2L, I/N: 0400846

2 Simple Green Exterior Window Cleaner, $19.97/2L, I/N: 0400849

3 Simple Green House Wash, $29.97/2L, I/N: 0400848

4 Simple Green Deck & Fence Cleaner, $29.97/2L, I/N: 0400847

Adjustable spray settings help you reach those hard-to-access areas

time

leave it for a few hours, then vacuum again. If there are stains that need attention, tread lightly – using a clean cloth, blot with a gentle detergent and cold water, then allow the mattress to dry completely.

Germs at work

With all the time we spend at our desks, tapping away at the keyboard, it’s no wonder the work station is one of the germiest places in the home. Give your desktop devices a deep clean regularly. Power down your computer and gently shake crumbs and dust off the keyboard – a can of compressed air can help clear in between the keys. Isopropyl alcohol is safe to use on electronic devices, as it has a high evaporation rate –spray on lightly, then wipe clean for a sanitised surface.

Pet problems

If you have pets, you’ve likely got furniture and floors that need frequent attention. While you might regularly brush off the sofa, there could be a build-up of fur elsewhere too – where

the dog rubs against the back of an armchair or your cat’s favourite sunbathing spot. Use a pet hair brush to take care of these problem areas, then combat dirty floors.

Michael Palm recommends the Oates spin and clean mop and bucket set. “The mop head’s unique foldable side allows you to clean right up to the edge of hard floor surfaces and even along skirting boards,” he says. “And the scrubbing roller works to remove dirt, dust and hair.”

1 Selleys ‘Complete Clean’ multipurpose disinfectant wipes, $6.99/pack of 120, I/N: 0381803. 2 Selleys ‘Complete Clean’ power gel drain cleaner, $16.99/1L, I/N: 0443255. 3 Simple Green shower glass restorer, $19.90/600g, I/N: 0176247.

4 Scrub Daddy ‘Scrub Mommy’ scrubber/ sponge in Pink, $5.70, I/N: 0376111.

Want to enjoy a sparkling home? Try these handy tips: bunnings. co.nz/whole-house-clean

5 Rubbermaid ‘Power Scrubber’ brush, $29.45, I/N: 4480430. 6 Sparko isopropyl alcohol, $20.25/1L, I/N: 0175315. 7 Glitz Green cleaning vinegar, $5.98/2L, I/N: 4460483. 8 WD-40 specialist dust free air duster, $27.99/350g, I/N: 0241477.

9 Morgan microfibre cleaning cloths, $12/pack of 20, I/N: 0349108. 10 Sabco

‘SupaDry’ Gen2 spin mop and bucket set, $55, I/N: 0375272. 11 Oates wool duster with telescopic handle, $20.40, I/N: 4480333. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Most pillows can be cleaned in the washing machine. Spin twice, airor tumble-dry, and shake to fluff

New spin hero

Take the dirty work out of mopping with the NEW Oates Spin & Clean Compact Spin Mop & Bucket Set

Dirty floors are inevitable in any home, but keeping them clean doesn’t have to be a challenge thanks to the new Oates Spin & Clean Compact Spin Mop & Bucket Set

Whether you’ve just moved house, replaced your floors or it’s simply time to upgrade your mop, this new set should be top of your shopping list.

THE SPIN EFFECT

Spin mopping has never been so easy, or affordable. This carefully designed

The

duo harnesses the power of spin through a handle-driven system that gives total control over the amount of water required in the microfibre mop head – spin slow to help the mop pad absorb water, or fast to remove excess water. Its simple, effective method will bring a sparkle to all hard floors, but is especially ideal for timber floors that can be damaged by the pooling water other mop types can leave behind.

A THOROUGH CLEAN

Oates Spin & Clean Compact Spin

Mop & Bucket Set includes a scrubbing roller within the bucket that removes dirt and hair from the pad as you go. This leaves the mop head always clean and prevents dirty water, grime and hair being spread across the floor. The circular shaped mop head is also foldable to 90˚, making it easy to clean right up to skirting boards and corners without bending over.

Oates Spin & Clean Compact Spin

Mop & Bucket Set is now available at Bunnings for only $45, with refills sold separately for $13.99 each.

1 Oates ‘Spin & Clean’ compact spin mop & bucket set, $45, I/N: 0362060.

2 Oates ‘Spin & Clean’ microfibre mop refill, $13.99, I/N: 0362237*.

A clever locking mechanism stops the pad of the Oates Spin & Clean rotating while mopping

The mop simply folds for ease of cleaning near skirting boards

The system dismantles for easy storage, making it ideal for units and townhouses

microfibre mop head can be removed for washing or replacing

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Making magic

CONJURE NEW-SEASON LIFE AND COLOUR, INDOORS AND OUT, WITH THESE SIMPLE DIY PROJECTS

Photography BELINDA MERRIE Projects and Styling SAM VAN KAN

COLOUR PALLET

No shed? No worries!

Create a spot to store garden tools that doubles as a display feature. Paint a timber pallet – sourced from the side of the road or online – add a hose reel and hooks, then fix it to an exterior wall with decent eaves above. Use for the hose, hand tools, rakes, hoes, spades and more. Garden chic!

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (eye and ear protection, mask, gloves)

n Claw hammer

nMicrofibre cloth

n Paintbrushes, roller and tray

n Tape measure and pencil

nDrill with 8mm (5/16) nut driver and 3mm bit

nTimber pallet

n75mm x 3.75mm flat head galvanised nails

n120-grit abrasive paper with sanding block

n Exterior primer and paint

nHose holder

n12G x 25mm galvanised hex head screws

nSix 50mm hanging hooks

n8G x 25mm galvanised timber screws

DIY TOOLKIT

1 2 3

2

1 Wear safety gloves and use a claw hammer to replace missing or loose nails. Sand all over pallet with 120-grit paper. Wipe away sanding dust with a damp cloth. Apply primer with a paintbrush. Leave to dry.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

2 Apply two coats of exterior paint all over, using a brush to cut in and roller for flat surfaces, leaving to dry after each coat.

3 Mark the holes in the hose holder mounting plates on the second slat, predrill with a 3mm bit and secure with 25mm hex head screws using a nut driver.

4 Mark the holes in the hanging hooks on the second and fourth slats, 150mm apart. Predrill and secure with 25mm galvanised screws.

Keep in mind...

n When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety gear.

n When painting, always wear safety equipment (eye protection and mask) and work in a well-ventilated area.

1 Holman decorative hose hanger, $19.56, I/N: 3121029.

Pinnacle 50mm hanging hook in Matte Black, $3.12, I/N: 0184804. 3 Irwin ‘Impact Pro Performance Series’ 47mm nutsetter set, $24.98/ pack of 3, I/N: 0055452.

FESTOON POT POSTS

Create an outdoor room by framing a space with festoon lights. Ours are hung from handsome hardwood posts set in sturdy pots of concrete for stability. This totally transportable set-up can be placed in any area and is a great solution for renters. Clever!

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection)

nCombination square and pencil

nDrill with 3mm and 5mm bits

nMeasuring jug

n40mm paint stirrer

nMicrofibre cloths

nFour 2400mm lengths 42mm x 42mm hardwood•

nFour 300mm x 90mm x 19mm timber offcuts

nFour 300mm x 300mm ceramic pots

n10G x 50mm galvanised screws

nTwo 20kg bags fast-setting concrete

n48mm painter’s tape

nTung oil

nFour 5mm x 95mm galvanised screw eyes

nFour 10kg bags 20-40mm decorative stones

nConnectable party lights

nOutdoor cable ties

DIY TOOLKIT

1 2

Keep in mind...

3 4

1 On one end of the hardwood posts, mark the centre using a combination square and predrill with a 3mm bit. Predrill through the offcut centres. Position an offcut against the outside base of each pot, with the posts inside. Line up holes to secure with 50mm screws.

2 Working on one pot at a time, pour in half a bag of fast-setting concrete. Add a litre of water and use a stirrer to combine into a smooth consistency. Position strips of painter’s tape over the top in a grid pattern to hold the posts upright and leave to cure. Once cured, unscrew and remove timber offcuts.

3 Wipe the posts clean with a damp cloth, then use a clean, dry cloth to seal with two coats of tung oil, leaving to dry after each. On the top of the posts, mark the centres and predrill with a 5mm bit. Tip: Drill the holes the full depth of the bit.

4 Twist screw eyes into the predrilled holes. Move pots into position and fill to the top with decorative stones. Run festoon lights around the posts, pushing the cord into the screw eyes and using cable ties to secure.

For durability out in the elements, use stainless steel or galvanised screws, and choose treated timber or hardwood bunningswarehousenewzealand

1 Lytworx connectable double filament indoor/outdoor low voltage LED party lights in Warm White, $65.98/10 bulbs, I/N: 0341457. 2 Tuscan Path 20mm-40mm mixed decorative stones, $29.83/10kg, I/N: 0014841.

3 Tuscan Path ‘Ava’ 30cm x 30cm egg pot in Sage, $39.63, I/N: 0312603.

4 Monarch 10L-15L wooden paint stirrer, $2.75, I/N: 1662580. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

n Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask and gloves when handling dry concrete.

n When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety gear.

HANDY HERB STAND

This clever benchtop planter keeps fresh herbs – and cooking goals – in reach. Water the top pots and they’ll drip to the plants below. A saucer captures the overflow. To make it, you’ll need a circular saw to cut the timber panel and be handy with a router to make the recessed joints. Cutouts made with a holesaw hold the small pots.

If you don’t have a nail gun, use a hammer with 30mm x 2mm galvanised bullet head nails

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection)

nCombination square and pencil

nQuick-grip clamps

nCircular saw

n1800mm DAR pine as a straightedge•

nPlunge router with 18mm straight-cut bit

nDrill with 102mm holesaw

nNail gun with 20mm brad nails

n1800mm x 405mm x 18mm hardwood panel•

n120- and 180-grit abrasive paper

nTimber adhesive

nLint-free cloths

nPainter’s tape

nTimber filler with spatula

nTung oil

nHerb seedlings

nSix 110mm low terracotta pots

n390mm rectangular terracotta saucer

DIY TOOLKIT

1 Mark up hardwood panel with a combination square to cut three 430mm x 180mm shelves and two 410mm x 180mm end pieces using a circular saw and clamped straightedge. Tip: Make the 180mm-wide cuts first.

2 To mark the recesses on the end pieces, measure up to mark 22mm and 40mm for the base shelf, 92mm and 110mm for the middle shelf, 392mm and 410mm for the top. Tip: Use an offcut to check the depths.

3 Set up a router with an 18mm straight-cut bit. Centre it on the shelf marks with a straightedge clamped against the router plate as a guide. To cut 9mm deep recesses, make a series of passes along the marks.

4 On the top and middle shelf, mark along the centre 90mm in from the sides. Mark 85mm in from the ends and the 215mm centre. Position 102mm holesaw on the marks to drill halfway, completing from the other side.

5 Sand the recesses with 120-grit paper to remove any breakout, then apply timber adhesive, position the shelves and clamp from side to side. Wipe away excess adhesive with a damp cloth; leave to set.

6 Remove clamps, tape ends to protect and secure shelves using a nail gun with 20mm brads. Remove tape, fill nail holes, leave to dry then sand all over with 180-grit paper. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.

Keep in mind...

7 Use a clean, dry cloth to apply two coats of tung oil, leaving to dry after each. Move the stand to a sunny spot. Plant herbs into the six terracotta pots, position in the holes and add terracotta drip tray to the base shelf.

n When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety gear.

n Have the router in position before turning it on, keep the plate flat on the surface to move it, and wait for the bit to stop completely before removing. Check the cut depth on a scrap of the same timber.

1 Gilly’s 100% pure tung oil, $32.99/250ml, I/N: 0329965. 2 Northcote Pottery 110mm Italian terracotta squat pot, $3.49, I/N: 2863583. 3 Ryobi 1600W plunge router, $197, I/N: 0292188. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

LIGHT IN BLOOM

Give a plain drum shade a colourful makeover

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (gloves and mask)

nTape measure

nArtist’s brushes

nDrum lampshade (we used Arlec’s ‘Dusk’ shade in Cream)

nTracing paper, scissors, pencil

nDouble-sided tape

nBlack marker pen

nMasking tape

nSample paint pots (we used Dulux Tūrangi/lilac, Kellands Pond/navy, Grahams Beach/ dark green, Pukekawa/yellow and Ardmore/pale green)

1 Measure inner circumference and height of the lampshade, then cut and join pieces of tracing paper with doublesided tape to fit measurements. Lay paper flat and sketch your design, then go over the outlines in black marker.

2 Insert the paper design inside the drum shade and secure the ends with double-sided tape. Use scraps of masking tape to number the flowers and sample pots, indicating which colours to paint the design.

3 Use artist’s brushes to paint the design on the outside of the drum shade. Apply two to three coats of paint, leaving to dry after each. Remove the paper design from inside and attach the shade to your lamp base.

Our crafty tracing paper hack makes light work of this design

MORE POWER. MORE WEEKEND.

Victa’s new powerful range of petrol handhelds includes a Line Trimmer, Leaf Blower & Vac and Hedge Trimmer. This range easily powers through a variety of jobs around the home garden leaving it looking perfect! Check out the range today at your local Bunnings.

LEFT If you prefer more ornate designs, browse the range of glass pattern packs in store

STAIN A PANE

Give your home period charm with a leadlight-look window. We used specialty glass paint to form a removable sticker or ‘cling’ for our window – no adhesive required!

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (mask and gloves)

nTape measure

nRuler and coloured pencils

nPlaid ‘Gallery

Glass’ tool set (optional)

n Brown paper

nPlaid ‘Gallery

Glass’ stained glass effect paints

nSheet of glass (from a large picture frame or glass-topped coffee table)

nMasking tape

nGlass cleaner and microfibre cloth

nPlaid ‘Gallery

Glass’ black liquid leading

DIY TOOLKIT

1 2 3

1 Kent 600mm stainless steel imperial/ metric ruler, $12.21, I/N: 0095365. 2 Plaid ‘Gallery Glass’ paints, $9.36/59ml each: in Emerald Green, I/N: 0442616; Snow White, I/N: 0442533; Royal Blue, I/N: 0442634; Lavender, I/N: 0442635; and Amber, I/N: 0442630. 3 Jumbuck BBQ butchers paper, $12.98/30m, I/N: 0170052. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

1 Measure the window and transfer the measurements onto brown paper with a ruler. Mark diagonal lines with a ruler to create diamond shapes and triangles within the outline. Do a corresponding sketch with coloured pencils to create a pattern, then number the infills on the paper and your chosen bottles of paint to match.

2 Place brown paper template on your work surface, then centre a sheet of glass over it. Use masking tape to keep in place, then clean glass with glass cleaner and a cloth. Starting with the nozzle touching the glass, then holding 1cm above, run beads of liquid leading, allowing it to drape along the marked lines to create the window outline and cames (dividers). Leave to dry overnight.

3 Fill each section with glass paint in the numbered colour. Use the combing tool (or a toothpick) to comb back and forth through the paint to create an even colour. Leave to dry overnight. Trim the leading outline neatly using the cutter tool (or a craft scalpel). Clean the inside of the window, then peel the painted ‘cling’ from the glass sheet and press the flat underside against the inside of the window.

5 GARDEN GADGETS

POWER THROUGH YOUR SPRING YARD TO-DO LIST WITH TIME-SAVING TOOLS

Words MITCHELL MCLEAN

Gardening can be backbreaking work, especially during the spring and summer months. That’s why it’s important to think ahead and enlist the right tools for the job. These five turbo-charged must-haves will take the strain and help you tackle your yard work in no time.

Take the strain out of gardening with powerful helpers designed for the task

Photography Alex Reinders, styling Sharon Begg.

Robotic lawn mower

Simplify your lawn maintenance routine with a robot helper. With programmable schedules and quiet operation, you can relax while your lawn gets trimmed. The invisible boundary wire technology and built-in sensors of the Gardena ‘Sileno Minimo 250’ allow it to stay within its designated mowing area and easily navigate obstacles. Certain models also have sensors that halt the blades upon detecting any obstruction.

Pruning saw

Take the hard work out of pruning with a cordless saw that offers precision cuts and impressive manoeuvrability. This lightweight, compact tool has a powerful motor and specialised blades that slice through even the toughest branches. Ergonomic design allows for comfortable onehanded operation, while a long-lasting battery means these saws are ideal for extensive pruning as well as quick tidy-ups.

Lawn scarif ier

Elevate your lawn to the next level with a high-performance battery-powered scarifier. It opens up your lawn and promotes better water, oxygen and nutrient penetration for healthier growth. Its specially designed scarifying blades effectively remove dead and thatched grass, moss and fallen leaves, while the debris catcher ensures easy waste collection. And with an adjustable working depth, you control what material you’re removing.

Soil meter

Are your vege seedlings always looking a little sad, or are you wondering why your hydrangeas are pink not blue? Here’s the perfect gadget to give you the answers. This clever 3 in 1 soil meter means you’ll no longer have to second guess when it might be time to water your plants – perfect for those new to gardening. It also provides soil pH readings and the level of sunlight your greenery gets, both important to plant health and growth.

Handheld cultivator

Give your soil the yearly boost it needs with a cordless cultivator. These batterypowered tools are ideal for aerating and turning over compacted soil in small gardens and raised beds, making it a simple process to plant seedlings while promoting healthy root growth. With adjustable speeds for different soil and ground types, you’ll no longer have to struggle with traditional garden cultivation methods.

Keep in mind…

n When pruning, always wear protective gear such as gloves and long sleeves, as the leaves and sap of

1 Trojan stainless steel hand trowel, $7.98, I/N: 3361190. 2 Fiskars ‘Xact’ 4 prongs weed puller, $83.87, I/N: 2970049. 3 Saxon 44cm plastic leaf rake, $5.97, I/N: 3350684. 4 Saxon shears and secateur set, $19.94, I/N: 0165905. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

n Always wear the recommended safety gear when using power tools.

some plants can be a skin irritant and/or cause allergic reactions.

1 Gardena ‘Sileno Minimo 250’ robotic lawnmower, $1,299, I/N: 0346490†

2 Ozito ‘PXC’ 18V cordless pruning saw, $129/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 3381217

3 Ryobi 36V 4.0Ah brushless cordless scarifier kit, $649, I/N: 0352897

4 Brunnings 3 in 1 soil meter, $18.98, I/N: 0246660

5 Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V handheld cultivator, $199/skin only, I/N: 0371237

Lawn lessons

Tame your backyard with ease with Ozito’s range of cordless mowers

If you want to trim your lawn with the minimum of fuss – without coping with cables or faffing around with fuel – you need a cordless mower.

Welcome to the new Ozito PXC range. There’s a model to suit all sorts of backyards with the Ozito range, powered by Einhell.

SMALL WONDERS

Take the PXC 18V Cylinder Mower

Great for small to medium-sized gardens, its battery-powered cutting action delivers a fine cut, perfect for anyone who loves their lawn. Or grab the PXC 18V Brushless Lawn Mower Kit

This compact and lightweight model

GARDEN GADGETRY

The 36V (2 x 18V) technology is available in other tools as well, to help in your quest for garden glory.

Chop back branches with the PXC 36V (2 x 18V) Brushless Chainsaw, clean up clippings with the PXC 36V (2 x 18V) Brushless Jet Blower, preen edges with the PXC 36V ( 2 x 18V)

Line Trimmer Kit, and use the PXC 36V (2 x 18V) Brushless Scarifier to refresh your turf. Job done!

Delivering the power you’d expect from petrol, the Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V) brushless steel deck mower kit is great for larger lawns

is powerful for suburban yards with smaller storage spaces.

BIGGER DEALS

For larger lawns, consider the extra grunt afforded by Ozito’s batterypairing technology, which lets you hook up two PXC 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power. The PXC 36V (2 x 18V) Lawn Mower Kit will trim a stretch of turf up to 300sqm, while the PXC 36V (2 x 18V) Brushless Lawn Mower Kit can crop up to 450sqm. Then there’s the PXC 36V (2 x 18V) Brushless Steel Deck Lawn Mower Kit, with its substantial 18” (460mm) cut. It can tackle lawns up to 500sqm on a single charge.

1 Ozito PXC 18V 380mm cordless cylinder

lawn mower, $239, I/N: 0167718*. 2 Ozito PXC 18V 300mm brushless lawn mower kit, $299, I/N: 0207447 3 Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V)

lawn mower kit, $398, I/N: 0471940. 4 Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V) brushless lawn mower kit, $529, I/N: 0500364. 5 Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V)

brushless steel deck mower kit, $599, I/N 0500591. 6 Ozito PXC PXCCSS-0182 36V (2 x 18V) brushless chainsaw, $249, I/N: 0080956*. 7 Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V) brushless jet blower, $169, I/N: 0293761*. 8 Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V) 300mm cordless line trimmer kit, $298, I/N: 0082358. 9 Ozito PXC 36V (2 x 18V) 350mm brushless scarifier, $349, I/N: 0410872*. All available in stores from mid September.

Scan the QR code to explore the full range of Ozito PXC products.

Cool canopies

Beat the heat on sunny days with

these shade trees

‘Luisa’ plum

As well as providing welcome shade during summer, this popular fruit tree produces crops of sweet, juicy yellow plums. It is mostly self-fertile, meaning you don’t have to plant another plum nearby for pollination. Bare branches in winter are followed by pretty white blossoms in spring.

Flowering cherry ‘Awanui’

Pale pink flowers make ornamental cherry Prunus x yedoensis ‘Awanui’ a welcome spring sight and feature tree. Plant in a sheltered spot for prolonged spring flowering. By summer, its branches are covered in vibrant green leaves that turn yellow and orange in autumn.

Silk tree

This graceful-looking tree has lacey fern-like foliage on arching branches that grow into a wide canopy. In summer it produces striking rosepink powder-puff flowers above the leaves. It is tolerant of drought and frost but prefers to be planted in full sun in well-drained soil.

Tītoki

Glossy green foliage and a bushy spreading canopy make this indigenous New Zealand tree a handsome option for sitting under on a balmy day. It will also attract fruit-eating native birds when the bronze-red flowers transform into ripe berries in summer. It likes well-draining soil and a full sun or part shade location.

FOR MORE PLANTS, VISIT bunnings.co.nz/plants

The tree canopy grows up to 3m wide and 5m tall, making it suitable for smaller gardens.

Has a spreading habit that weeps (grows down) with age. Grows up to 6m tall and 8m wide.

This deciduous living sun umbrella can reach 5m high and 4m wide in just 10 years.

Tītoki can grow up to 8m tall and 3m wide but can be easily pruned to a smaller height.

Silk tree Tītoki

(Prunus domestica)

(Prunus x yedoensis ‘Awanui’)

(Albizia julibrissin)

(Alectryon excelsus)

‘Luisa’ plum

Flowering cherry ‘Awanui’

Words Rachel Clare. Photography (plum, flowering cherry and Tītoki) Alamy Stock Photo, (Silk tree) Getty Images.

Fabulous-Looking Fences From Start to Finish

Price

$55

•Applies easily over previously stained timber & rough sawn wood

•Mould & Mildew Protection