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In Search of the Best Gardening Tools
Written by: Nicky Pilkington
Different kinds of gardens require different kinds of garden
tools. Hardware stores mostly cater for a wide range of tools,
but there are shops that specialize in the more expensive kind
of garden tool that shouts quality. Wherever you decide to shop,
here are a few pointers to advise you.
Do you have small garden or a large one? A small garden will not
require the same large equipment that would be of use in an
extensive one. A ride-on mower is unnecessary if you only have a
small strip of lawn. Another point to consider is who does most
of the gardening? Some tools are too heavy for use by women.
When you buy secateurs make sure the blade always stays sharp to
avoid damaging the plant. Look for models that have blades that
can be sharpened or replaced, models with tension control and
with sizes that best fit your hands. Secateurs usually cost
around $50 - $130.
Hedge trimmers or shears are handy - but only 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. The cheaper ones are often not strong enough for
heavy soil, so go for sturdiness instead of price. Forks usually
cost around $30 - $100.
A shovel has a scoop blade and is best used to move around dirt
and garden soil. A spade has a flat blade great for cutting
edges, digging and dividing plants. The edge of a spade should
be kept sharpened for clean and efficient cutting will cause the
least amount of damage to plants. These are a basic garden
necessity and usually cost from $30 - $50.
A pruning saw is used for pruning trees and larger shrubs, while
secateurs are for plants like roses. Pruning saws have a narrow
curved blade that fits between stems or branches and easily and
cuts them as you pull the saw backwards. They are approximately
$27- $55.
A chipping hoe is a handy tool for getting rid of small weeds.
The Dutch or push-hoe is slightly more user-friendly as the
action required to use it does not jar the neck and shoulder
quite so much.
A rake is also a basic requirement for the garden. The strong
rake with the flat head and sharp metal prongs is used for
smoothing a garden bed and getting out the last of the bumps and
weeds. The plastic rake is used to gather leaves and grass
clippings only.
Gardening tools don't have to be expensive. Flea markets and
garage sales can be excellent places to pick up great tool
bargain.
About the author:
Find more about gardening
and some useful gardening
tips at About
Gardening
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