This might be one you've already got lying around in your shed but if not you can buy one for as little as £3.50 from Wickes. As the days grow longer and warmer, gardens across the UK are coming back to life and so is the nation's passion for . This spring, over 42% of UK adults are actively engaging in , with even more taking it up as a relaxing, low-cost outdoor hobby.

But with the surge in interest comes a surge in demand and one humble tool is often forgotten: the hand fork. Small, simple, and incredibly versatile, the hand fork is often the first tool reach for when the season begins.

It's ideal for weeding, breaking up compacted soil, aerating flower beds, and working around delicate roots.

Every spring, supermarkets, garden centres, and DIY stores prepare for the gardening rush as gardeners rush into stores to purchase equipment.

According to across the UK, hand forks are one popular item Brits are keen to get their hands on.

Hand forks are affordable making them a budget-friendly option for .

But not only this, hand forks are a multipurpose item and a go-to tool for everything from vegetable patches to window boxes.

MAC Renewables has shared a for this spring. Drawing on their solar expertise, they've shared a simple but powerful piece of advice: "In solar, we always say: go south-facing for the best sun," explains a spokesperson for MAC Renewables.

"That principle works in the garden, too. A south-facing bed can increase sun exposure by up to 25%, helping seeds germinate faster and plants grow stronger.

"Pair that with a well-prepped, aerated bed using a good hand fork, and you're set for a strong start."

If you're wondering where you can buy a hand fork, check online retailers at UK-based like Crocus, RHS, or Direct.

Alternatively, you can check DIY stores' websites such as B&Q, Wickes, or Homebase.

Avoid plastic handles if possible and instead go for wooden or rubber-grip designs for better durability.

The hand fork may be one of the most , but it's also one of the most essential.