Left to right : Long-handled pruner , digging fork , and hand pruner |
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blades come in a variety of widths . Broader , scooped blades move more soil at once , while narrower blades are more effective for digging in rockeries or removing deep-rooted weeds . A trowel blade marked with a depth guide is helpful if you ’ re planting many bulbs and perennials .
Larger , full-size shovels and spades are important for gardeners with full-size gardens . Digging forks are also essential for bigger spaces and make short work of fluffing soil , lifting rocks and loosening the earth around larger perennials . The tines slide easily into the ground , even in heavily compacted or rocky soil .
Handheld tine cultivators are must-haves for small-space gardening or those spots where you need to work carefully around plants . Featuring three or four sturdy prongs , cultivators loosen soil around plants without damaging roots , make it easier to pull weeds and help aerate the soil too .
Related to the cultivator is the hand rake . Hand rakes are ideal for tight spaces where a larger rake wouldn ’ t fit .
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Use a hand rake to eliminate surface debris from under shrubs or in borders of the garden .
Garden tools are an investment , so always look for quality and durability . Avoid lightweight plastic ( it has a tendency to break ) and choose tools made from corrosion-resistant high-carbon steel , stainless steel or fibreglass .
On better-quality trowels , cultivators and hand rakes , the handle and the working component are forged together rather than joined with rivets or screws . Durable pruners and loppers have sharp , quality blades and a smooth cutting mechanism .
Finally , don ’ t overlook fit . Your garden tools are an extension of you and need to fit comfortably in your hands . Choosing soft-grip , ergonomically correct handles minimises injuries from repetitive strain and allows you to work harder and longer with less effort . That ’ s important as you go about creating beauty in your garden .
Laura Langston lives and gardens in the Pacific Northwest .
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LEFT / RIGHT : COURTESY OF FISKARS ; CENTRE : COURTESY OF KENT & STOWE |
Maintaining your tools
Tools work hard and deserve proper care :
● The No . 1 enemy of garden tools is moisture ; never put them away wet .
● Clean the blades of pruners , shears and loppers by wiping them with a clean rag after each use .
● Brush dirt from trowels , shovels , cultivators and rakes .
● Store all tools in a dry , protected spot , ideally in a shed or garage .
● Larger tools can be hung on a wall , while smaller ones can be stored in a basket with your gardening gloves .— LL
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