Gardening Tools - Choosing the Right Tools to get the Job Done

Your garden is one of your favorite spots to enjoy life.  Then why not purchase the tools that you need to facilitate your gardening chores?

How to choose the right tools

When purchasing your gardening tools, you’ll want to hold the tool to make sure that it fits comfortably in your hand and that it is lightweight and easily maneuverable.

Tool handles are usually constructed of plastic, metal or wood. You may want to consider purchasing tools with wood handles because they are sturdy and comfortable. And unlike metal handles, they will not become uncomfortable to hold when gardening during the colder months.

You will also want to consider purchasing a good pair of gardening gloves at this time, as well. They will protect your hands, keep them clean and prevent blistering.

The five, basic gardening tools that every gardener should not be without include:

• Hoe
• Pruner
• Shovel
• Trowel
• Garden Rake

Benefits of the Hoe

A hoe is a useful tool which is used to prepare seed beds, to loosen soil and to remove weeds.  You may choose either a square-bladed hoe or a pointed hoe, depending on your gardening needs. A square-bladed hoe is ideal for most gardening tasks, while a pointed hoe is ideal for working between plants and other small areas.

Ease of Use with a Pruner

You’ll want to look for pruning shears that do not open wider than the width of your hand; otherwise, it will be extremely difficult and uncomfortable to use.

Two different types of pruners include a garden pruner, which acts like a scissor, and an anvil pruner, which acts like a knife.

Benefits of Your Shovel

Many types of shovels are available, including a round point shovel, scoop shovel, garden shovel and irrigation shovel.

A garden shovel with a pointed blade is typically easier to maneuver than standard, square-shaped blades. They can be invaluable for a variety of digging, lifting and moving tasks.

The Highly Effective Trowel

A trowel will definitely be one of the most-used tools in your arsenal, as it is ideal for a wide variety of digging jobs that may not be well-suited to a larger shovel. It is also perfect for digging out weeds or planting bulbs and plants. A trowel is certainly useful if you work primarily in raised beds or containers.

Garden Rake

A good, all-purpose gardening rake is ideal for clearing out rocks and debris from your beds, as well as for spreading mulches and smoothing out seed beds. Choose a lightweight rake with a handle that is long enough to eliminate excessive bending. A good rule of thumb is to choose a rake whose handle reaches your ear.

The two types of rakes include the bow rake and the head rake. Both are similar; however, bow rakes are heavier and require a stronger amount of force to move them. Level head rakes, however, are lightweight and better suited for women or elderly individuals.

Always remember: The right kind of tool can make your gardening excursions even more enjoyable and comfortable!