Essential Gardening Tools

Every task uses tools. Some tools make our lives easier, but are not essential. But, there are some tools that are required to get the job done. Here are some tools, and the qualities to look for in those tools, that are essential to gardening.

When shopping for garden tools, don't forget to look at the handle. Tools that are higher in quality usually have wooden handles. However, if the handle has knots or is painted, pass on it. Knots can cause weak spots. Paint can hide lower quality handles. Be sure to look over the handle well before you purchase the tool.

The end that gets the most use on a tool should be one solid piece of rust-resistant metal. Again, if the tool is completely painted, it's probably hiding low quality. Good quality tools are usually painted only half way on the blade. This lets you see how sharp the end is and the quality of the metal.

Check the size of the tool to be sure it is what you need. You can do this by picking up and tool. Move it around a bit. Be sure it's not too heavy or too light. It should fit you and the job you want it to be doing.

A hand trowel is a wonderful tool for gardening. It can be used for digging around established plants, digging up weeds, and transplanting. A trowel that is well designed and made using quality materials will not bend when you are using it.

A spade can also be very useful in gardening. Unlike a shovel, it has a flat, square blade. A spade can be used to dig new beds or transplanting.

Another indispensable gardening tool is a garden fork. It is very useful for loosening soil, dividing and lifting perennials, and removing stones. Garden forks usually have thick, blunt tines.

Pruning shears are another essential tool for gardeners. They can be used to trim perennials as well as removing dead branches and cutting stakes. The scissor-type works much better for trimming and cutting than the anvil-type does.

To cut through tough roots, a sharp knife is imperative. This is especially useful when dividing thick rooted perennials. A folding knife works best because it can be carried in your pocket.

A hand cultivator is also useful for loosening dirt around plants. It will usually have three tines and be small enough in size to dig shallowly in the soil. It is also useful in uprooting weeds.

Doing a job well leaves one with a satisfying feeling. Having the correct tools to get the job done right makes the task much easier. These tools should make gardening an enjoyable hobby for anyone to pursue.

SOURCE

-- Rodale Organic Gardening Basics. Volume 6: Perennials. 2001. St. Martin's Press.