At Tom’s Yard I believe the right tools make all the difference. Whether you’re shaping a formal garden or simply maintaining a few well-loved pots, the quality of what you use has a direct impact on both the result - and the enjoyment of the work itself.
That’s why I'm pleased to introduce a new range of Japanese garden tools from ARS - a company with a whopping 150 years of heritage in crafting precision cutting tools. ARS has been producing professional-grade pruning equipment since 1876, combining strength, sharpness, and thoughtful design in every piece .
Japanese tools are renowned for their use of high-carbon steel - often described as knife-grade - which holds a sharper edge for longer and delivers cleaner, more precise cuts . The result is not just better performance, but healthier plants and a more satisfying gardening experience.
A tool for every task
This new collection I'm stocking has been carefully selected to cover the essentials - whether you’re pruning established shrubs, maintaining borders, or working on more delicate planting.
Premium Japanese Garden Snips, £20
For finer work, these lightweight snips offer exceptional control and accuracy. Perfect for deadheading, harvesting, or trimming delicate stems, they deliver clean cuts without crushing plant material—something Japanese tools are particularly known for. A simple tool, but one you’ll reach for time and time again.
Commercial Grade Japanese Secateurs, £35
Robust, high-performance secateurs designed for regular use and tougher pruning tasks.
Designed for regular and more demanding use, these secateurs strike the balance between strength and comfort. The hardened, chrome-plated blades provide durability and rust resistance, while the ergonomic design ensures they remain comfortable even during longer sessions in the garden .
ARS Professional Secateurs, £59
Precision-engineered secateurs offering sharpness, control, and long-lasting performance.
For those who want the very best, the professional secateurs offer a refined cutting experience with exceptional sharpness and control. Built with the same attention to detail that defines the ARS range, they are designed to deliver consistent, clean cuts across a wide range of pruning tasks—making them a long-term investment for any serious gardener.
Folding Pruning Saw, £25
A reliable companion for heavier pruning, the folding saw is designed for cutting through thicker branches with ease. The precision-ground blade and distinctive tooth pattern allow for fast, smooth cuts, while the folding mechanism makes it safe and practical to carry around the garden. Ideal for seasonal pruning and tackling more established growth.
Built to last
One of the standout features of the ARS range is its longevity. Many tools come with replaceable parts and are designed to be maintained rather than replaced - something increasingly rare in modern gardening equipment. Combined with their precision engineering, this makes them a sustainable and worthwhile investment.
A cut above the rest
There’s a reason Japanese pruning tools have such a strong reputation among gardeners and professionals alike. Cleaner cuts mean healthier plants, less effort, and ultimately a more enjoyable time in the garden.
This new range from ARS brings that philosophy to Tom’s Yard - tools that are not only practical and durable, but a pleasure to use.
