Gardening accessories

In Search of the Best Gardening Tools

Different types of gardens require different types of gardening tools. You'll find the local Hardware stores carry a wide range of tools, but there are shops which specialize in the more expensive garden tools that deliver quality. Wherever you decide to shop, here are a few pointers you may find helpful.

Do you have small or large garden? A small garden will not require the same equipment that a large one will. For instance, a large rototiller is unnecessary if you only have a small strip of a garden. Another point to consider is who does most of the gardening? Some tools may be too heavy for use by the average woman.

When you buy pruning shears make sure the blade always stays sharp to avoid damaging the plant. Look for:

Hedge trimmers or shears are necessary if you have a hedge, or plan on growing one. Some hedge trimmers have curved blades to stop branches from sliding out when cut.

Forks are used for turning and aerating compost and breaking up lumps of soil. Be careful because the cheaper ones are often not strong enough for lifting heavy soil, so look for sturdiness rather than price.

A shovel has a scoop blade and is best used for moving dirt and garden soil. A spade has a flat blade great for cutting edges, digging and dividing plants. The edge of your spade should be kept sharpened to allow clean and efficient cutting to ensure the least amount of damage to plants. The above tools are a basic garden necessity.

A pruning saw is used for pruning trees and larger shrubs, while pruning shears are for plants like roses. Pruning saws have a narrow curved blade that fits between stems or branches easily and cuts them as you pull the saw backwards.

A chipping hoe is a handy tool for getting rid of small weeds. However, the Dutch or push-hoe is slightly more user-friendly since the action required to use it does not jar the neck and shoulder quite so much.

A rake is another necessity for the garden. A strong rake with the flat head and sharp metal prongs is used for smoothing a garden bed and getting out the last of the rocks and weeds. A plastic rake is mainly used to gather leaves and grass clippings only.

As a final note, gardening tools don't have to be expensive. Flea markets and garage sales can be excellent places to pick up great tool at a bargain price!