| What to Look For in Garden Tools |
| Written by Clive Reid |
| Friday, 11 December 2009 09:42 |
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You need the correct type of garden tool to suit your particular garden. Most hardware stores carry a wide range of inexpensive tools, but you will need to visit specialist garden shops for the dearer high quality tools. Wherever you decide to shop you can find some good pointers here.
You need the correct type of garden tool to suit your particular garden. Most hardware stores carry a wide range of inexpensive tools, but you will need to visit specialist garden shops for the dearer high quality tools. Wherever you decide to shop you can find some good pointers here. Do you have small garden or a large one? A small garden will not require the same large equipment that would be of use in an extensive one. A ride-on mower is unnecessary if you only have a small strip of lawn. Another point to consider is who does most of the gardening? Some tools are too heavy for use by women. When you buy secateurs make sure the blade always stays sharp to avoid damaging the plant. Look for models that have blades that can be sharpened or replaced, models with tension control and with sizes that best fit your hands. Secateurs usually cost around $50 - $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. When buying forks only go for a cheap lighter tool if your soil is light. Heavier soil needs stout tools that can be more costly. The price range is between $30 to $100. They are used for digging soil and compost while letting the air get into it. 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-. While secateurs are adequate for plants like roses a pruning saw is needed for the larger branches of shrubs and trees. They are designed with thin curved blades that can slide between adjacent stems and cut through them as you draw the blade back. A modest $27 to $55 will purchase one. 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. Gardening tools don't have to be expensive. Flea markets and garage sales can be excellent places to pick up great tool bargain. About the Author: 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. |
