Crossword Genius

They're used in gardens outside houses (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hoes

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'gardens outside houses' is the definition.
'hoes' can be an answer for 'gardens' (I've seen this in another clue). I'm unsure of the 'outside houses' bit.

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hoes that I've seen before include "Gardening tools" , "Garden tools" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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