Gardening Tips

When preparing to pursue a project, my husband, Darwin, always tells me, “It’s all about having the right equipment.” The same is very true in gardening. The great thing about tools for this project is that, unless you are putting in large-scale gardens, the tool investment can be very small.

Once you have the garden spot tilled and planted, then begins the adventures of maintaining your newly planted produce. Everyone has a “favorite” garden tool. I have several. Tools for container gardening will vary from traditional garden beds. For example, you don’t need a hoe or shovel in a half-whisky barrel of lettuce and onions.

There are a wide variety of choices in small garden tools at most discount and department stores, as well as garden centers. Keep this rule of thumb: you get what you pay for. Another rule of thumb is: simpler is better. Don’t over invest. Be sure you become acquainted the needs your garden has before you buy every great looking gadget out there. Seek the input of your experienced garden friends. Also, don’t overlook the possibility of finding used tools as well.

For container gardens, both a wide and narrow trowel, they look like short handled shovels, are very important. A short handled claw is helpful as well. It will act as a mini rake.

As for regular sized garden tools, I like a good, sharp, narrow-bladed hoe, a triangle-tip hoe, a fine-toothed adjustable rake and a good shovel. If you are like me and prefer to limit the number of blisters you get, they make great cushion-handled equipment. Unless you have industrial strength knees, a garden cushioned kneeler will make our gardening more enjoyable. And, of course, the number one tool is a well-fitted pair of chore gloves. I prefer leather, and they make them for ladies, too. With all this in mind, you are on your way to great adventures in healthy living.