Garden Tools Directory and Resources Guide

Many garden implements are `must-haves` if you wish to garden successfully.

Some people expect to get perfect results from their garden, but don`t take the time to possess the basic tools that are necessary for the job.

The cost of garden tools is modest. Some tools can be picked up in yard sales at a fraction of the cost.

The most basic tool is a spade, and it is always worthwhile to have two of them. The straight-edge spade works best, but if you have lots of holes to dig, you may wish to go for a rounded `gravedigger` spade.

Next comes the fork, which should be about the same size as the straight-edge spade but with four heavy-duty tines. The fork is essential for cultivating the soil, trimming things over and spot-aeration. The fork is often used more often than any other tool.

Pruning tools should also be part of your ensemble, beginning with a pair of hand secateurs, or snips. Among pruning tools are long handled secateurs for heavier jobs, such as cutting branches up to about 4 cm thick. These two handed devices will also let you access spots beyond normal reach. For cutting larger limbs and branches you should get an aggressive bow saw, which is good for diameters to 15cm - or larger, if you don`t mind working up a sweat.

It is hard to understand how gardeners can get by without owning at least one wheelbarrow. It is a most useful device when you are planting, composting, or, simply need to move items around.

If you have a lawn, you will need a mower. A push mower is fine for small lawns, or if you need a workout, though time constraints may force you into getting a power mower.

Among other items you will likely need are shears and a hoe for weeding, especially if you plan to grow vegetables, or things like roses that need frequent cultivation and are spaced well apart.

You should own at least three rakes: one with metal tines for levelling off beds, a lawn rake with either plastic or metal tines and a smaller version of the lawn rake, for removing debris from tight spots in fall or spring.

As for small tools, they are quite straightforward, such as the trowel, hand-fork and the hand held weeding tool. You should be careful about purchasing too long a garden hose. They can be cumbersome, especially when you need the extra length only once in a while. It would be better to buy shorter sections and connect them when necessary. Cheap, thin, garden hoses continually kinks and splits easily.

Buy the best for longevity.

Have fun while working in the garden.