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Are you just starting a garden and are wondering what type of tools to obtain for the best possible care of the garden?
You know as the years go by it seems we still need the same
basic tools for tending our gardens. If you will choose your tools well for the tending of the garden you will increase your enjoyment of working with the soil. For my way of thinking a well-made tool for the garden is so much better than some new fancy expensive gadget.
You will need first of all one of the best essential tools for the garden: a trowel, one that is drop-forged and fitted with a wooden or plastic handle. The neck doesn't seem to break as often on this type as it does with the pressed steel models and the handles don't blister as much as the metal. There is also a bulb planting trowel available that has a narrow blade, so that you will only have the minimum amount of soil removed from planting each individual bulb. There is a large bladed transplanting trowel to make a larger hole but I seem to actually prefer the smaller trowel that removes less dirt each time.
You will need a shovel and I do feel that the pointed shovel is by far the best tool for just that ordinary digging. It should be long handled to provide leverage and you sure want to avoid getting a back ache from being over. This point will make it easier to gain entrance in the ground and then the rounded part will actually serve as a scoopo to hold more material from the soil. I do find using the No. 2 and No. 3 shovel the most convenient but that is also a matter of personal preference.
A spading fork is very good for turning the soil, especially if you have stony ground. This type has four flat tines, about l/2 inch in width.
I also like to use a hand weeders or shall we say cultivators, I like to get down and really feel the soil and work it as it brings more enjoyment.
The best are the ones made of forged steel as they tend to be more sturdy and last longer. I also like a miniature spading fork which I do find very convenient for loosening the soil to perhaps five to six inches or for when I wish
to dig up small plants. This claw or, as some call it, a "cat's paw" model is excellent for scratching the surface of the soil, destroy those small pesky weeds or to break up a crusty spot in the soil. It will be fitted with a small handle for that close work or you might find one with a long handle so that you might reach further into a flower bed.
I certainly think you need a hoe as these are essential to keeping the ground in good condition and also in keeping those terrible weeds in control. Now I seem to like a lightweight hoe and also require a blade that is so tempered that it doesn't bend easily. There is one made with prongs on the back. The best thing to do is to explore your local hardware store and find that perfection hoe for only you. There are many excellent garden tools to be purchased.
Remember a good tool is a possession to be proud of, and should always be cared for: don't put it away all muddy and dirty. Take the time and care for it and you will be repaid for your efforts by good use of your tools for many years.
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