Helpful Hints
So which Haws cans should you buy? How do you choose?
Though varying in size, shape, capacity and purpose, all Haws cans have a number of things in common:
- attractive
- thoughtfully designed
- well balanced, easy to handle
- good value for money
- durable and long lasting
- most are supplied with removable brass roses to give a gentle spray
- most cans are 'Made in England'
Apart from wanting to buy a nice looking can here are the main things you need to consider. For what purposes will the can be used and where? Do you prefer a metal or plastic can? Things to consider here are weight - metal is obviously heavier, durability – metal is much longer lasting providing you never let water freeze inside, and cost – metal is more expensive. If you prefer lighter weight and cheaper plastic cans you have the choice between heavy duty 'injection moulded' cans or less expensive 'blow moulded' cans which are made of thinner plastic. Typically a Haws blow moulded can should last at least 5 years, compared to an injection moulded can at least 10 years. To lengthen the life of any plastic can, keep it out of direct sunlight.
What capacity/size can do you require? Bear in mind that water is quite heavy even in a well balanced can like Haws. Also, consider that (like suitcases!) it is easier to carry 2 cans of water than one – and you don't have to fill them. You also need to choose between long or shorter spout cans,. Long spouted (traditionally known as long reach) cans are useful if you want to reach to the back of borders or staging within gardens, or if you are going to be spraying seedlings long spouted cans are supplied with finer spray roses for this purpose. Shorter spouted cans are suitable for general watering jobs around the garden especially pot watering and spraying established plants. They are also easier to store!, especially oval shaped ones like the new Haws Slimcans.
Are you going to use your can for applying fertilisers or weed killers, if so please be aware that some chemicals should not be used in galvanised watering cans (this is always made clear in their usage instructions). Many gardeners keep red plastic cans specifically for applying weed killers and to avoid any risk of contamination, do not use them for any other purposes.
When you have a clear idea of which Haws cans you are interested try the Choose and Use Guides on this website to help you make your choice (they are on the homepages for each style of can). As you go through the Guide ask yourself whether one size and style of can will meet all your can watering needs. Many gardeners have several Haws cans for different purposes!