Wheelbarrows are excellent for moving heavy loads such as compost, plants and garden waste.

Materials

The tray of the barrow may be made of metal or plastic. Metal trays are strong and durable, although they will eventually rust. Wheelbarrows with plastic trays are much lighter than metal barrows, but they are more prone to breakage; look for versions that are made from thick, high density, polypropylene which are preferably UV-resistant.

Wheels

They are available with one or two wheels; the two-wheel type (often termed a garden cart) is more stable, whilst a one-wheel type is easier to manoeuvre.

Single-wheeled versions may have a solid, pneumatic or ball tyre. Pneumatic and ball tyres are much easier to push over rough ground than solid versions, although there is the risk that they may become punctured.

Size

Choose a barrow that is large enough for your needs; but remember, the larger the wheelbarrow, the more difficult it will be to manoeuvre. You will also need to make sure that you will be able to comfortably lift it when it is full.