I guess I use both for different things...I often do internet research to narrow down my search for things like white goods where it is easy to compare features, then will often go and look at the models in the shops for a final choice, armed with the online shop prices you can then usually negotiate a good price.
I also like to go 'browsing' shopping too, often at designer outlets or small quirky shops that stock things you otherwise can't get hold of. And as for gardening stuff...if I went and looked too often I would be penniless, so try and only go when I have something specific to purchase. ;D
