Are you interested in getting started in gardening, or simply expanding your repertoire of gardening tools and essentials? You are sure to find just what you are looking for below.
A water hose or two (depending on how far your garden is from your water spigot), a rain wand and a watering can
These are all essential in their own right. I'm sure if you have any type of lawn you already own a hose, but look into getting a rain wand for the end. This is easier than filling and carrying my watering can back and forth. I reserve my watering can for the herbs on my porch that would be overwhelmed by the rain wand.
Scissors
From snipping herbs to deadheading flowers, these come in very handy. You might be surprised to find that you can go high-end with your gardening scissors, but your basic kitchen scissors have never given me, or anyone else I know any problems.
Rake
These range from wooden handles to plastic, and from metal teeth to plastic teeth. You will no doubt find purpose for both. I prefer plastic handles because they are lighter and easier on my back. Rakes with plastic teeth will be for your grass, leaves and twigs while your metal teeth will be for lifting and lightly tilling dirt in your garden.
Shovel
Talk about variety! I'm sure it wouldn't hurt to own every variety of shovel available, if of course we aren't speaking in terms of your wallet. For your basic gardening needs, stick with a shovel that is curved, and narrower than the old school square-edge shovel. The one you should be looking for is also known as a "spade."
Gloves
If gloves could talk they would say, "you're welcome," because of course we would always be thanking them for saving us from cuts from thorns, and the inevitable dirt under our fingernails. As to what type is best for your gardening needs, the consensus seems to be that you should stay away from cotton, and instead try a silicone or latex-coated glove. I do use gloves with a silicone grip and I really enjoy them. I have full use of movement, compared to when I borrow my boyfriend's leather gloves and can't seem to do what I want.
Garden hoe
Such a versatile tool, the hoe is used to break up dirt, till (or mound) dirt where needed, control weeds and harvest root vegetables. A definite necessity in any gardener's arsenal.
Hat and sunscreen
Do I need an excuse to buy another hat? No, but if I did, I would certainly have one. Remember safety first when it comes to spending this much time in the sun. A nice, unscented sunscreen should be applied as per instructions as well. I do say unscented because it is far better for your skin if you are sweating.
Wagon and wheelbarrow
I love wagons and wheelbarrows. Anything that will help me carry a heavy load is worth having multiples of. Of course, depending on what types of projects you're undertaking, a fabric wagon that you pull behind vs. a plastic wagon you can pull behind a 4-wheeler, both have their days. Start with a fabric pull-behind, and feel out if you could put a heavy-duty wagon to use. A wheelbarrow requires a little more work on your part, but is great for collecting and unloading heavy items.
Hand tools
It can't all be done with your larger tools. Hand forks, rakes and spades make the gardening life so much better. Use these mini-versions when you are getting up close and personal with your ground.
Some gardening tips for you would be:
Know your soil. Everywhere is different – do your research and know what you will be working with.
Disinfect your gardening tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Put your tools away every night. The last thing you want is for them to rust.