Now that you have decided you are ready to garden. It’s time to pick up some necessary gardening tools.
No matter what size garden you have the top 5 tools you should consider investing in should be: gloves, shovel/trowel, rake, pruning shears, and a penknife. These items can get you started. If you plan to have a large garden there are a few additional items that you may need.
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Taking the time to invest in sturdy tools that are suited to your size garden will save you from a lot of headache down the road.
My top 5 Gardening Tools
Gloves
I will admit I am not normally a glove wearer. In fact, there is scientific data showing the benefits of “playing” in the dirt. Science Daily published an article in 2010 sharing “Exposure to specific bacteria in the environment, already believed to have antidepressant qualities, could increase learning behavior,…”. Occasionally though there are jobs that require a good pair of gloves. Usually a pair of good quality leather gloves is all you need.
Shovel
The size and type of shovel/trowel will depend on the size of garden that you have. When you are looking for a set consider the size first. Make sure you are also checking out the handle. You will be working with these tools often so you want to make sure that the grip is comfortable and will hold up to the demands of your job.
Rake
A sturdy rake for creating even seed beds is all you really need. When choosing a rake make sure the handle reaches your nose while holding it vertically, this will ensure comfortable use. If you have large garden beds you may need to look at some hefty options. Although if you have a patio garden you can you may not need this.
Shears
Pruning shears, I have found are a tool that people often forget about. Even with a patio garden shears can come in handy. Finding a set that has a comfortable grip is important. You could end up using this to cut thicker branches on plants like rosemary, which is a great patio plant.
Penknife
A penknife is something that I didn’t have for a long time. In recent years though I always have some sort of knife or scissors in my garden apron. I can’t tell you how many times I went to harvest something and didn’t realize how strong the vine was. This always sent me on a trip to look for something to cut with.
These main tools will be used for digging, planting, weeding and ultimately harvesting.
Bonus gardening tools to consider
Apron
The more time I have spent in the garden I have also come to depend on a good garden apron. With fashion trends constantly changing you never know if you will have pockets. The apron I really like is made from denim so it is flexible but can hold up to having tools shoved in it.
Wheelbarrow or Cart
As my garden grew and I added composting I found I really needed a way to move it. I started out with smaller potted plants, but as they outgrew their pots, they needed bigger one or to go in the ground. My husband got me a nice cart with big sturdy wheels. I don’t know if I could live without that cart in the garden now. It helps me be more efficient with all my tasks.
Cushion
As we age bending down to do work in the garden isn’t always easy. There are many products out now that can provide support. Whether you need something to kneel on or a seat. I particularly like the seat that can convert to a kneeling pad. This product won’t disturb my garden rows while I work.
Tending to a garden is great for the soul and the pocketbook. By taking the time to invest in some good tools you can ensure that it stays that way.
Do you have a favorite tool? Or do you have a question, please feel free to comment below. Check out some of my other gardening articles for other tips and tricks.
