Tools For The Gardening Beginner

By gardener | Jul 22, 2007

When gardening first began, the tools were simple. There was a shove, a pitchfork, and a rake. Gardeners made use of these tools regardless of how cumbersome they may have been. These tools were utilized for several tasks and the results were not always optimal. Hundreds of years ago when a gardener needed a specific tool, they did not jump in their car and run to the gardening store for that special tool.

Definitely, times have changed and we have an assortment of tools, styles, colors, and sizes from which to choose. Gardening is a very popular hobby and with that, manufacturers have created effective and unique tools that make gardening a pleasure to undertake whether or not you are a beginner or an expert. Gardening tools today are made with fiberglass handles and padded handgrips. They will not rust if you leave them outside to face the weather and are virtually indestructible. They come lighter and even in special colors if you so desire.

With the choices of gardening tools so immense, short of going out and buying all of them, how do you know which ones you need? Before you go and buy a tool, know why you need it – assess your needs. If it looks like weeds are overtaking your yard, then do not go and by a shovel – invest in a weeder. Another way to decide what gardening tools are right for you is to talk to your neighbors. What do they use, ask to borrow their tools. If it works for you then you know you can put that on your list, as one to buy and if it does not you did not waste money buying something you know will not work for you.

Something to remember when you do buy your tools is to buy tools that are made of high quality. There is nothing more frustrating than buying a piece of gardening equipment only to bring it home use it a few times and then have it break. You may spend more money up front but it will be worth it in the end. Here is a list of a few tools to get you started:

Shovels – these are necessary for moving soil and planting.

Trowels – the majority of planting will take place on your knees and you will probably end up with a few different size trowels in your gardening arsenal.

Pruners – it is important to invest in good pruners, as this will make your job much easier. You want to find pruners that have replaceable parts and blades that you can sharpen. A good set of pruners may be costly but it is well worth the expense.

Hoes – there has not been a garden constructed yet that does not have its share of weeds and a hoe is very important. They come with both large and small blades which will help you get in between plants as well as break up soil

Garden Forks – these are a bit smaller than a pitch fork and are great for breaking up the soil often times you can use a garden fork in place of a spade

Rakes – great for getting those fall leaves out of the garden along with any debris that may be around. Rakes come in different sizes and with stiff or limber tines so find the one that will meet your needs

Wheelbarrows and Carts – unless you plan to carry the various items you need for gardening this is a great investment. Be careful with your choice, if you get one too large and fill it to capacity then it will be too heavy to lift and move around.

Two-wheeled Garden Carts – these are great if you heavy loads because they are very stable.

Water Cans – as the majority of gardeners know you cannot always count on the rainfall to do the trick so having a watering can on had is a good choice. As with other tools, determine the size that will most efficient for your gardening needs.

Hose – when you purchase your hose you want to find one that will not knot up as you are winding your way through your garden. In addition, you do not want one that will burst under pressure. Look for one that is approximately 5/8 of an inch and you should be fine.

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