ALTERNATIVELY…

Eve Aqua

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden big enough that you need to ‘do the watering’ every spring and summer evening, then you’ll know it can be a tedious task. Smart watering systems are available from various hosepipe makers, but our recent favourite is this little box from the Apple-orientated Eve. It works with most hose systems and is app-controlled. £90 / evehome.com

Biolite Firepit+

If you’re after something to keep you warm on chilly nights but would rather do without ungainly heaters, a firepit is your answer. This model from Biolite burns both wood and charcoal, letting you use it for cooking as well as ambience. The best part, though, is the fact that you can adjust its built-in fan with an app, giving you wireless control over the intensity of the fire.

$300 / biolitenergy.com

Weber Genesis Smart Gas Barbecue

Weber’s latest range of smart barbecues will blow diehard grill fans away, thanks to connected tech that uses wireless probes to let you remotely check on the internal temperature of your food. Brains aside, they’re formidable beasts in their own right, with powerful burners and dedicated sear zones for getting that mouthwatering finish. from £1649 / weber.com

Ecoflow Delta Portable Power Station

This portable battery station lets you recharge or power gadgets from anywhere in your garden. Its 1800W of continuous power rivals petrol generators, with a mix of USB-A, USB-C and, yes, actual three-pin plug sockets, so everything from speakers and TVS to laptops and camping fridges can run for hours.

£1299 / hampshiregenerators.co.uk