Author Rachel Howatson

Rachel Howatson

Digital Writer

Rachel Howatson is a digital writer who works across Our Media’s home and craft brands, writing primarily for YourHomeStyle.uk and Gathered.how. With a love of eclectic furniture and bold, statement décor, she’s got your interior and crafting needs covered. Often found scouring out the best deals online, Rachel has written buyers’ guides for special interest titles GardensIllustrated.com and Countryfile.com. She started her career in the lifestyle publishing sector as a digital writer for womanandhome.com over four years ago after training as a broadcast journalist.

Recent articles by Rachel Howatson
Houseplant Christmas card designs

The best garden Christmas cards for a horticultural greeting

Spread some green-fingered festive cheer this year with a garden themed Christmas card.
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Cat Doormat

The best outdoor Halloween décor ideas

Give your garden a spooky yet tasteful twist this year with our list of the best outdoor Halloween décor items
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Furniture covers on a pink background with the Gardens Illustrated logo

Protect against the elements with the best garden furniture covers

Protect your outdoor chairs, tables, BBQs and parasols from weather damage with our list of the best garden furniture covers
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10 best fence paints for an immaculate garden in 2024

Find a stylish and protective fence paint for your garden fence, and keep your outdoor area in pristine condition.
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Outdoor rugs on a grey background

The best outdoor rugs: 11 fun choices for a welcoming space

Add an outdoor rug to your garden for a chic look and homely feel
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Best garden bar ideas for an al fresco drinks party

Friends and family will be jealous when they see these stylish garden bars this summer.
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Person using Burgon & Ball National Trust Secateurs

The 13 best secateurs to buy: prune like a pro in 2025

Find the perfect pair of secateurs so you can snip, cut and prune your garden to perfection.
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Seed trays on a white background

Best seedling trays: 9 plastic-free options

Whatever you're growing - herbs, flowers, veg or fruit - make sure your seedlings get off to a good start with the help of a seedling tray.
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Oliver Bonas Strawberry Garden Ceramic Mug on a white background

9 lovely gardening mugs for spring

We've selected nine lovely gardening mugs so you can enjoy a well-deserved brew after a day of planting and potting.
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A decking patio

Best patio cleaners for stone paving and decking

Spruce up your patio, and get your decking guest-ready with the help of a patio cleaner solution.
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Crocus Wool plant pots with plants on potting bench

The best eco plant pots for greener growing

Fed up of flimsy plastic pots cluttering your greenhouse and on the lookout for a more eco-friendly alternative? Read on to discover our favourite eco plant pots.
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The best plant and gardening audiobooks for 2024

Whether you're pottering about in the greenhouse, or relaxing with a cuppa, pop on a gardening audiobook for a fascinating listen.
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Set of 3 Regular Harlow Rattan Dual Colour LED Light Up Reindeer Family in a snowy garden

We've found the classiest outdoor Christmas lights for winter 2024

Add a cosy, classy touch to your outdoor space with our list of the best outdoor Christmas lights, including wreaths, garlands and fun festive figures.
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Best leaf grabbers for a clear lawn

Keep on top of your gardening to-do list with a pair of leaf grabbers
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Best garden candles to create the perfect evening glow

Make your outdoor space even more inviting with the help of a garden candle
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A selection of water butts on a pink background

The best water butts for water wise gardening in 2024

Conserve your water usage in the garden with these fabulous water butts in 2024
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Best cocoon chairs: 9 hanging egg chairs for the garden

Create a new dreamy reading spot in your garden with the help of a stylish cocoon chair
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We've found the best garden brooms for all outdoor sweeping tasks

Make light of autumnal garden chores with a trusty garden broom
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The best garden mirrors for your outdoor space

Add a touch of chic glamour to your outdoor area with our pick of the best garden mirrors.
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The best outdoor cupboards and storage cabinets for your garden

Keep your garden neat and tidy with our selection of the best outdoor cupboards and storage cabinets.
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Best outdoor rocking chairs for your garden

Looking for a new garden napping spot? Treat yourself to an outdoor rocking chair
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The best garden shredders for a green and tidy garden

Keep your garden waste under control, and help create your own compost, with a garden shredder.
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The best extension leads for your garden

Invest in a trusty extension lead, and hook up your outdoor appliances with ease when you're in the garden.
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Night oil

The best botanical skincare for a lush beauty routine

Treat yourself, and your skin, to a botanical skincare product and feel the benefits of plant power.
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