Garden hand tools are great for so many small, yet essential, gardening chores. From planting to digging, pruning to weeding, these efforts tools are easy to use and ideal for tending to small gardens. They are beneficial for new and experienced gardeners.
Why Garden Hand Tools Matter
A good, reliable garden hand tool set helps gardeners get close to the soil and plants to do their work. Hand tools don’t require fuel or power, are quiet and allow for accuracy in small spaces or odd angles. They are also ideal tools for the home garden, flower pots and other gardeners.
Common Types of Garden Hand Tools
There are various types of garden hand tools that are created for different purposes. Here are some of the most prevalent.
Digging and Planting Tools
These tools assist gardeners in digging soil, sowing seeds, and transplanting plants.
- Hand Trowel: A short handled shovel for planting flowers, herbs and vegetables. Stainless steel trowels have a longer life span and do not rust as easily.
- Transplanting Trowel: With its small, narrow blade, a transplanting trowel is useful for digging in or weeding.
- Dibber (Planting Stick): A pointed stick used for making holes for seeds or bulbs.
Tools for Soil Work
These devices are used to till the soil and mix compost in the garden.
- Hand Fork: A small tool with 3-4 robust tines for breaking up hard soil, mixing in fertilizer.
- Cultivator: Implement with curved teeth to loosen the top layer of soil and destroy weeds.
- Hoe: A flat or pointed blade used for cutting plants and shaping planting rows.
Pruning and Cutting Tools
They are pruning or removing old growth, which helps keep plants healthy.
- Secateurs: Small scissors used to trim plant stems and branches. They are effective for branches up to ¾ inch thick.
- Loppers: These feature long handles and are for heavier cutting. Some varieties are geared for easier cutting.
- Hedge Shears: Scissors-like with long, straight blades for trimming bushes and hedges.
Weeding Tools
These tools help remove unwanted plants from the garden.
- Hand Weeder: Narrow, forked tool for prying weeds out by the root.
- Scuffle Hoe: A push-pull hoe used for cutting weeds just below the surface of the soil.
Other Helpful Tools
These instruments help make gardening a little easier.
- Garden Gloves: Keep dirty and blistered hands out of their gloves. They exist in lots of different materials like leather, rubber.
- Kneeling Pad: A cushion used to protect the knees when working at ground level. The majority are constructed of waterproof foam.
What to Look for in Garden Hand Tools
Good quality hand tools will make gardening easier and more enjoyable. The material, the handle, the weight, it all matters.
Blade and Tool Materials
Tools should be constructed of strong, durable materials.
- Stainless steel does not rust and is easy to keep clean.
- Carbon steel holds a sharp edge for longer, but can rust if not properly cleaned and dried.
Handle Types
Handles need to be strong and comfortable.
- Wood handles look classic and feel organic, but they’re prone to breaking or splintering.
- Handles made of plastic or fiberglass are more durable and won’t absorb water over time.
- Rubber Grips: Provide more control and less hand fatigue.
Comfort and Design
This is where the quality of the tool design is obvious as it satisfies the hand and doesn’t tire the hands.
- Handles that are curved or cushioned ensure wrists and hands stay comfortable.
- Tools that are not too heavy and well balanced are easier to work with.
How to Choose the Right Tools
The right tool for the job depends on the type of gardening someone does and how often they do it.
Know the Garden Needs
Various gardens require various tools.
- Smaller gardens or pots require small tools, such as hand trowels and weeders.
- If the gardens or beds are large, work with a full-size hoe or fork for faster movement.
- Soft plants require more delicate tools; thick branches require more powerful pruners or loppers.
Focus on Quality
Strong and well-made tools last longer and work better.
- All steel tools are stronger than tools made with welded construction.
- Rust resistant finish provides lasting strength and value in wet soils.
- Some brands even provide long or lifetime warranties as a sure sign of their belief in their products.
Comfort is Important
Gardening is more fun when working with tools that feel good to hold.
- Some folks prefer straight handles; others, curved.
- Rubber or foam handles offer a better grip, which can help during prolonged tasks.
- Opt for short tools for finesse work, and longer tools for getting into awkward places or for working stood up.
Taking Care of Garden Hand Tools
Properly caring for tools can help them outlast their lifetime and perform better. Proper cleaning and storage are important.
Cleaning Tools
Tools should be cleaned after each use.
- It can be dirt washed from the surface with a brush or hose.
- Dry them well so they won’t rust.
- To remove sticky sap, rub with a cloth dampened with vegetable oil.
Sharpening and Oiling
With sharp tools, make clean cuts with less effort.
- File or sharpen once or twice a year.
- Machine oil also removes rust and lubricates moving parts.
Storing Tools the Right Way
Keep tools secure, clean and in the proper place.
- Keep tools off the ground and ready.
- Store tools in a dry place.
- Allow them to air out to avoid mold or a bad odor.
Final Thoughts
There is no gardener that can do without garden hand tools. Whether somebody is planting vegetables or pruning away at some bushes, having the right tool is what makes the job a whole lot easier. By choosing the right tool, keeping it clean and storing it properly, gardeners can use it for many years.