WHAT TRUG IS BEST FOR ME?

Trugs are a must-have accessory for any gardener. They are used for harvesting your homegrown fruit, veg and herbs, as well as collecting cut flowers and plant cuttings. They also make the wonderful gardening gift.

Trugs were thought to be first used in Anglo Saxon times, when they were made from a hollowed out piece of wood called a ‘trog’ meaning boat like vessel. Over time this evolved into a more practical lightweight willow version. This design endures today as the most popular trug.

Nowadays trugs are available in a range of different shapes, sizes and materials – sturdy wire, silicone or traditional timber. Initially made in the UK, they are now manufactured by craftsmen across the world.

So, whether you’re after the timeless timber classic or a modern masterpiece, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste and budget, in our carefully curated selection.

1. THE SUSSEX TRADITIONAL TIMBER TRUG

Widely known as the Sussex trug due the area in England where they were made, this traditional trug is handmade from strips of Cyprus pine formed and nailed into a basket. Ideal for collecting fruit, vegetables, flowers and cuttings. They can also be used to make decorative indoor displays.

The Sussex Traditional Trug available here

2. BURGON & BALL HIP TRUG

This hip trug clips simply into a snug neoprene sleeve then onto your waistband for hands-free access while working in the garden. A 3L capacity, it’s the ideal size for storing small to medium harvested garden produce and can be easily removed, tipped out and ready to be refilled. It’s even easy to clean - safe for dishwasher and microwave use. Ideal for small to medium fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs and weeds.

3. OPEN FLOWER TRUG

Made from lightweight timber or woven cane, the open flower trug has a distinctive open ended design which allows cut flowers to lie flat. The Esschert Design flower trug is handmade from lightweight FSC pine. It also has the additional design feature of folding handles, making loading and storage easy. Sustainably sourced, this makes the perfect gift for an eco conscious gardener. Ideal for cut flowers, it can also be filled and used as an indoor display.

4. FRENCH METAL WIRE TRUG

A more modern design, the metal wire basket trug borrows its shape from the traditional Sussex design. Constructed from steel wire mesh, it is lightweight and easy to use. They are particularly useful for root vegetables or produce that needs washing as the produce can be rinsed under the garden tap. Ideal for medium to large produce or cut flowers, smaller items or herbs may fall through the mesh. They also are very popular for indoor decoration.

5. STEEL METAL TRUG