Homily Magazine

Different tools are required for various types of garden. Specialist garden centers and shops will stock the higher quality tools but these will be more expensive, than those provided by local hardware shops. You should consider the following advice whichever supplier you choose to go to

What is the size of your garden? A large garden might need bigger tools than a small plot. For instance a small grass lawn could be cut with a hand mower while larger swathes may require a ride on machine. Again who will be the main gardener? A short women would need lighter, shorter tools than a tall man.

To avoid damaging your plants you will need sharp secateurs that you can easily handle. Seek out models where the tension is adjustable and the blades can either be sharpened or replaced. Expect to pay no less than $50 or more than $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.

There is a difference between spades and shovels, the latter has a wide scooped blade for shifting soil and other material about, whilst a spade should have a narrower sharper blade for cutting through plants and soil and for edging beds and lawns. A spade is a “must have tool”, and the cost is small at between $30 and $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.

To deal with small weeds you need a hoe. These come as push or Dutch hoes or draw or chipping hoes. the chipping hoes are not recommended as the jarring action can be harmful to the neck and shoulders.

All gardens need a sturdy metal rake to remove weeds and flatten the soil in the garden beds. Some also require a lighter model, often plastic to gather up loose grass clippings and fallen leaves.

Tool bargains can be found at markets and local sales reducing your outlay in the beginning .

Learn more about herb gardens. Stop by clive’s site where you can find out all about herb gardens and what they can do for you.