Environmental awareness is big news, not only at Chelsea this year, but throughout the horticultural world. Whether you want something functional or decorative, there is no shortage of products for your garden that are biodegradable, made from recycled materials or harvested from a renewable source.

It is hardly surprising that gardeners are such keen eco-shoppers. We are more aware of the changing climate than nongardeners – we notice that plants are coming into flower earlier, for example – and we are on the front line of water conservation because we have to deal with the ever-present threat of a hose-pipe ban. But it is one thing to be keen, another to be savvy. So, what’s really worth buying amid the crop of ecofriendly gardening products?

Here are some suggestions.

RUBBER TUB TUB

Made from recycled tyres, these planters have a sound eco-pedigree. Each has a unique colour and tread-mark pattern, adding to its visual appeal. £20, from The Urban Garden; 0870 042 3586, www.theurbangarden.co.uk

WATCH THE BIRDIE

Made from untreated, Forestry Stewardship Council-certified English oak, this bird feeder has an easy-to-clean circular platform for the birds to land on, and a stainless-steel spike on which you can impale bird-friendly foods such as apples, seed and fat balls. £8, from Hen & Hammock; 01844 217060, www.henandhammock.co.uk

THE BUTT STOPS HERE

There are countless water butts on the market – most of them plastic eyesores. This version, in galvanised steel painted moss green or cream, is as chic as they come. With a capacity of eight gallons, it can be attached to the wall and has a tap near the bottom, so it’s easy to fill the matching can. £62, from The Urban Garden, as before

READ ALL ABOUT IT

Allan Shepherd’s lively, informative and accessible book The Organic Garden (Collins £17.99) goes beyond the usual subjects of composting and mulching, dealing with climate change, ethical shopping at the garden centre and what to plant to encourage friendly bugs. It also has a comprehensive list of suppliers and resources, and should inspire the novice gardener to become thoroughly green. It practises what it preaches, too: the book is printed on paper made using wood from forests that have been certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council.

ROUND THE CROCK

A practical and attractive alternative to a plastic bucket, this dishwasher-safe ceramic crock, with a ventilated lid and replaceable carbon filters for freshness, is perfect for storing organic waste in the kitchen between visits to the compost heap. It is 27cm high, and can be placed on a worktop or stored underneath the sink. £19.99, from the National Trust Shop; 0870 112 5384, www.nationaltrust-shop.co.uk

Explore Gardens

• Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

• Chelsea Flower Show

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