Image of James Laidler

Connect with James

About James Laidler

Hello, I’m James. I write most of Garden Machinery Direct’s blogs, along with product descriptions, category pages, and other website content. I also look after the company’s X account and post on LinkedIn.

Latest from James Laidler

  • a Husqvarna battery and 2 cordless garden tools laid on grass

      Cordless garden tools have revolutionised the way we maintain our outdoor spaces. From mowing and trimming to pruning and blowing, these battery-powered machines offer freedom, convenience, and performance without the fuss of fuel or trailing cables. But like any investment, they need a bit of care to keep delivering the results you expect. Whether [...]

  • a man wearing ear defenders, safety glasses and gloves, using a hedge trimmer

      Gardening may be a relaxing hobby for many, but the machinery involved can turn peaceful pruning into a perilous pursuit if handled carelessly. With today’s equipment growing more powerful and sophisticated, following proper safety procedures is more important than ever. Whether you're a weekend gardener or full-time landscaper, protecting yourself with the right techniques [...]

  • a man using a Husqvarna cultivator to till soil

      When it comes to creating the perfect garden, what lies beneath the surface matters just as much as what you plant. Proper soil preparation lays the groundwork for strong, healthy growth—whether you’re sowing grass seed, raising vegetables, or filling borders with blooms. And while manual digging might have its place, there’s a smarter, faster [...]

  • a man adjusting the cutting height lever on an orange and white STIHL lawnmower

      As spring gathers pace and the days grow longer, your garden is now wide awake after its winter slumber. Amongst the first things to respond to the changing season was your lawn—possibly the centrepiece of your outdoor space, and also one of the most demanding when it comes to seasonal care. However, with the [...]

  • pink azaleas blooming in a spring garden

      Spring is in full swing, and May is one of the most exciting months for gardeners. New growth is bursting into life, and longer, warmer days offer the perfect chance to really get your garden into shape. Whether you're tackling long-postponed tasks or embracing new gardening ideas for spring, there’s plenty to keep you [...]

  • a woman using the Ariens Edge 42 Zero Turn Mower to mow a lawn

      In the world of lawn care, few garden machines generate as much interest as zero turn mowers. Originally designed for commercial landscapers and groundskeepers, these high-performance machines are now finding their way into more British gardens than ever before—and for good reason. Good zero turn mowers are designed for speed, precision, and control, making [...]

  • a man cleaning his front driveway with a STIHL pressure washer

      Pressure washers, also known as power washers or jet washers, have revolutionised the way we approach outdoor cleaning. Whether you're looking to remove stubborn dirt from your driveway, revive tired old garden decking, or simply give your car a spotless shine, these powerful machines can make the job significantly faster and more satisfying. In [...]

  • an orange scarifier in a field, with trees and a pile of thatch in the background

      A flourishing, green lawn is the dream of many gardeners, but maintaining healthy grass requires more than just regular mowing and watering. One of the most important lawn care practices is scarification, which is a process that removes thatch, moss and debris to promote better air circulation, water absorption, and overall lawn vitality. This [...]

  • a woman getting rid of tree branches and green garden waste into a STIHL GHE 150 Electric Chipper

      If you’ve ever asked yourself, ‘How can I get rid of garden waste?’ then you’re not alone. Whether you’re trimming hedges, mowing the lawn, or embarking on a large garden renovation, getting rid of garden waste efficiently and sustainably is an important consideration. Many homeowners struggle with what to do about getting rid of [...]

  • a man using a mulching mower in the garden

      Imagine a lush, green lawn that thrives without the need for constant fertiliser applications, excessive watering, or endless bagging of grass clippings. Sounds ideal, doesn’t it? Well, this is exactly what a mulching lawn mower can help you achieve. If you’re wondering what makes a lawn mower that mulches grass so special, the answer [...]

  • a woman taking a pressure washer out of a garage

      Spring has finally arrived, so, after months of dreary weather, it’s time to refresh your outdoor area. Cleaning your garden with a pressure washer is the fastest and most efficient way to remove the dirt, algae, and grime that have built up over the colder months. From cleaning patios and pathways to reviving garden [...]

  • an overhead shot of a woman mowing a lawn with a Honda HRX 476 Lawnmower

      The lawn is often the centrepiece of a garden, requiring regular care to stay lush and healthy. A great lawnmower makes maintaining it easy and efficient. However, with so many different models available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide simplifies the process by helping you understand the different types of lawnmowers, [...]