Are you considering purchasing a collection of garden gear and not sure what you require?
Your collection of garden gear depends on the size of your garden, the range of plants you have, and the extent they need to be maintained. There is no need to have unnecessary equipment you won’t use because it’s a waste of your hard-earned money. Agreed?
There are quite a few scenarios to consider before purchasing your collection of garden gear.
For instance, are there hedges to be trimmed, flowers to be snipped, and lawns to be mowed and edged? Or, do you live in an apartment with a balcony and only a few pots needing minimal effort to maintain?
Also, those pesky weeds. Do you have large areas or small areas in the garden that require regular weeding?
And not forgetting the deciduous trees losing their leaves in the fall and the constant mess they make for weeks. Annoying, right?
Of course, there is garden gear for every conceivable scenario and with the right research, you can own a collection that suits your needs. With a cost that will suit your budget. All you need is the right knowledge and hopefully, we can assist with both in this article.
Trust me there is nothing more satisfying than walking through your garden after a day of trimming and tidying. The feeling you have knowing you did it yourself is undeniable and it only takes time and a small amount of effort. And after the initial outlay of money for the garden gear you will save heaps not paying a gardener. Win!
And, also consider getting the kids involved. Making it a fun family bonding activity in the sunshine and an opportunity for them to learn some life-long skills.
The kids will love it!
Garden Gear to suit your needs
Apartment Balcony, Courtyards or Roof Gardens –
Does your apartment have a balcony? Because planters and pots make a great garden setting on a balcony. Also, courtyards, roof gardens, and patios. Why? Because they are instant and movable. Making it easy to change the setting and the plants as often as you like in these small confined areas.
It is a good idea to research the plants suitable for your specific balcony position before deciding on your setup. The weather conditions and position of the sun and shade during the day are factors to consider in your plan. Other factors are the size of pots and the size of the plants and the maintenance they require. Also, think about how much time you want to put into your balcony garden once it is established?
Consider flowering annuals for color and herbs for practicality for instance, or, small shrubs. Maybe! These choices are low maintenance therefore, they require little time and effort.
Fortunately, the garden gear required for a balcony garden is minimal once the pots and plants have been purchased. Depending on your choice of plants, of course!
At the end of the day you just want to sit on your balcony amongst your garden setting and relax with a coffee, wine, or whiskey. Am I right?
What Garden Gear do you need for a balcony, courtyard or roof garden?
Pruning Shears
Handy to have for those delicate trimming tasks and deadheading your potted flowers, roses, and small shrubs.
–Vivosun 6.5 inch Gardening Hand Pruner Pruning Shear Straight Stainless Steel Blades Orange (Under $10) are great value for money being small sharp and versatile, a great size for delicate work such as deadheading your flowering plants and snipping herbs.
–Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruner Non-Stick Blades Orange/Black (399211-1003)
(Around $20). Quality is always positive for Fiskars tools. Comfortable to use, sharp, and precise.
–Fiskars 99216935J Pruning Softtouch Micro-Tip, Non-Coated Blades, (Around $20). The spring-action design of these pruners gently opens blades, thus, reducing hand strain. These particular pruners were awarded Arthritis Foundation ease-of-use Commendation for those with arthritis or limited hand strength.
Small Trowel
An ideal tool for repotting your balcony plants when the time comes to make some changes or add new plants.
–Fiskars 79796931J Fiber Composite Transplanter (Under $15)
The narrow blade makes this tool perfect for repotting plants especially in tight places. Light, strong, and easy to use.
–Radius Garden 100 Ergonomic Aluminum Hand Trowel Original Green (Around $10) The ergonomic design of this trowel makes digging a pleasure. It is comfortable to use and great for those who suffer from Arthritis and Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. And for those who have latex allergies this brand is non-latex.
Watering Can
Watering cans are a quick and easy way to give your plants a drink. And, can be kept on the balcony to add character to the overall setting. Therefore adding color and decorative appeal.
-Novelty 30602, Pearl indoor Watering Can, 1/2 Gallon (Under $10).
A popular watering can which is made in the USA from durable plastic and comes in a choice of colors. It has a stylish ergonomic design and a water holding capacity of 1/2 Gallon making it easy to handle when full. The long-stem spout and small opening assist control of water flow.
-Novelty MFG 30301 Watering Can 2-Gallon Green (Under $20) Made from sturdy plastic and a 2-gallon capacity great for fewer refills. The double handle design assists with controlled pouring, tip the can gradually to help control the flow as well. And a removable head gives you the choice of flow or sprinkle watering.
Gardening Gloves
It is recommended you wear gardening gloves when working with potting mixes and soils. Mainly to protect your skin from the nasties they may contain.
–G&F Products 6 Pairs Women Gardening Gloves With Micro Foam Coating (Under $15). This six-pack of gloves of 3 different colors is value for money. There are also packs of men sizes available in this range. The gloves are made of 100% nylon shell with a 100% microfoam coating covering the palm and fingers so they are long-lasting. These gloves fit like a second skin making them comfortable and easy to wear. They can also be hand-washed.
-G&F 1852-3Women Soft Jersey Garden Gloves, Women Work Gloves, 3 Pairs Green/Pink/Blue per pack (under $10). A 3 pack of women’s gloves with a cute floral design. These gardening gloves are 100% soft jersey cotton for those who prefer natural fibers against their skin therefore washable after use. To assist with grip the palms of these gloves have small PVC dots.
These gloves are great value for a pack of three.
Suburban Living – Garden Beds & Lawn
Owning or renting a home in suburbia usually comes with garden beds and lawns to maintain.
The front garden is the introduction to your home the first thing a passerby notices at a glimpse. Therefore it sets the scene to your property. The ‘wow’ factor, so to speak.
Of course, it doesn’t need to be Beverly Hills spectacular. Simply neat, tidy, and maintained. And all it takes is mowed, edged lawns and trimmed, shrubs, deadheaded flowers, and the absence of messy leaves and unsightly weeds. Simple!
Take note of front gardens on your next drive through the suburbs and you will understand. Presentation is the key to introducing your property.
Neat and tidy does the job!
Garden Gear For Garden beds
Your budget for garden gear for a garden bed depends on the plants you have the maintenance they require and the size of the area. The initial financial outlay will differ accordingly and will be individual according to your specific needs.
The cost also depends on whether you want/need to use hand tools and/or power tools to do the job.
Your budget will dictate what you purchase so consider what you will use most often and use this as your guide when purchasing your entire collection.
Hand Tools
If your garden bed consists of small shrubs, flowering plants, ground covers, hedges, and succulents you will need a selection of hand tools such as these listed below to help you start your garden gear collection.
Pruning Shears
Pruning shears are used most often in the garden. Specifically for deadheading flowering plants and trimming away dead branches and foliage on shrubs.
FYI there are two types of pruning shears when considering this purchase.
Anvil style pruning shears refer to a sharp blade meeting a sharp blade a flat surface and are best used when trimming deadwood. They tend to crush live plant tissue in the cutting process.
Bypass style pruning shears are best when trimming live plant stems and greenwood. This style has a distinct sharp upper blade that meets a sharp edge with a flat surface to cut.
Ratcheting style pruners are recommended as they are easier to use and less strain on hands and wrists when cutting.
Recommend you check the maximum diameter recommendation of the manufacturer for warranty purposes.
Take a look at these pruners to give you an idea of the style you require.
Anvil style ratcheting:
Power Drive Ratchet Anvil Hand Pruning Shears – Gardenite (under $30)
Bypass style ratcheting:
Gonicc 8″ Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears (GPPS – 1003) Hand Pruners, Garden Clippers (Under $30)
Loppers
Loppers are long-handled pruners for those taller shrubs or trees in the garden. The longer handles of a lopper assist with leverage at heights and do come in telescopic for an even longer reach. Loppers also offer the choice of anvil and bypass for the consumer to consider. And they also offer ratchet for ease of cutting and non-ratcheting options. Again, consider ratcheting loppers to minimize hand and wrist strain. Especially at heights as you have more power when cutting.
Always best to check the recommended branch diameter for warranty purposes before purchasing.
Here are a couple of choices to consider.
Anvil style ratcheting loppers for dead, dry growth.
Spear & Jackson 8290RS (Under $60) Telescopic
Bypass style
Fiskars 28 Inch Bypass Lopper Black/Orange (391461 – 1003)
(Under $40) Non-telescopic
Hedge Shears/Clippers
Hand operated hedge shears are great if you have small to medium hedges to trim. They are better for the budget and easy to maintain. Unless of course, you prefer a good workout in the garden. Any large area of a hedge would best suit the use of an electric or battery-powered hedge trimmer.
Again, telescopic shears would be the option to allow further chopping distance. And the extra length allows more tension to be applied for those stubborn branches.
For an idea of the hedge sheers available check out these options:
Tabor Tools B212A Telescopic Hedge Sheers With Wavy Blade And Extendable Steel Handles (Under $40)
Fiskars Garden 392861 – 1002 Powergear 2 Hedge Shears 23″ Black/Orange (Under $50) non-telescopic
Hand Saw
Hand saws are useful for cutting branches with a diameter of 1-4 inches after that consider a chainsaw to make the job easier. Folding saws are safer for storage purposes to ensure there are no unforeseen accidents especially involving children.
Have a look at this product for an option.
Corona Razor Tooth Folding Pruning Saw 10″ Curved Blade RS7265D
(Under $40) There is a choice of sizes available.
Tool Sharpener
When caring for tools with blades sharpening is a recommended practice for the longevity of use and to ensure value for your money. You want to be sure the tool sharpener is recommended for sharpening your whole range of bladed tools. Also, clean your tools after each use to eliminate any chance of sap or gum building up.
If you want to take on this task for yourself take a look at the product below.
Sharpal Pocket Knife Sharpener and Garden Tool Sharpener
(Under $40)
Tiller/Hoe/Cultivator
Great garden tool for loosening soil and getting to the roots of weeds for easy removal. Certainly makes the task of weeding a lot less of a chore. Short handled hoes are great for smaller garden beds when plants are close together. Also great for vegetable gardens and depending on the size of the garden you may opt for a longer handle for more reach.
Check out these options.
Edward Tools Hoe & Cultivator Hand Tiller – Carbon Steel Blade – Heavy Duty For Loosening Soil, Weeding & Digging (Under $50)
Flexrake 1000A Hula-Ho Weeder Cultivator with 54″ Aluminum Handle
Lightweight and gets under weed roots (Under $40)
Garden Spade
Garden spades vary in quality and price so your purchase will depend on how often you want to spend money on replacements. If you will be using the spade often budget for better quality for longevity and performance.
Spades are used for digging, lifting and moving soil, edging garden beds, and driveways and turning soil in larger garden beds.
Here is a couple you can look at for ideas.
King of Spades Model 38 (Under $100) made in the USA
Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-Handle Square Garden Spade (Under $80)
Hand Trowel
Hand trowels are essentially a small hand shovel and make it easier to work in the garden amongst other plants. A trowel with a broad blade is useful for moving more soil at a time. Whereas a trowel with a narrow blade as well as moving soil is great for digging up weeds and transplanting. Trowels with a stainless steel blade will last longer and probably be a little more costly. There are many varieties to choose from and they vary in price.
Here are a couple of brands to look at.
Edward Tools Bend Proof Garden Trowel – Heavy Polished Stainless Steel- Rust Resistant Oversized Garden Hand Shovel Digs Through Rocky/Heavy Soils such as clay (Under $15)
Edward Tools Transplanter Trowel With Ergonomic Handle – Bend Proof – High-Grade Steel Engraved Depth Guide (Under$15)
Garden Rake
Garden rakes are the trusty clean up tool that most gardeners have in their collections. Raking up leaves, trimmings, and garden debris is easy with a quality rake. Adjustable rakes have more uses and as the name suggests can be adjusted to suit the job. Metal tines are recommended for longevity and durability although plastic is popular. Again, personal preference makes the decision easier when purchasing your rake.
Take a look at these for ideas.
63″ Adjustable Garden Leaf Rake Expanding Metal Rake – Gardenite
(Under $50)
Bond 2060 7-Inch to 22- Inch Adjustable Steel Rake (Under $35)
Garden Gloves
Garden gloves are recommended when working in soil and handling mulches for skin protection. Gloves are a personal choice but here are a few points to consider. Length for arm and wrist protection if you are working in dense foliage. The material should be water-resistant, yet, breathable and being able to wash them may come into play as well. Prices, quality, pack numbers, and sizes vary.
Wheelbarrow-Garden Carts-Reusable Garden Bags
Wheelbarrows are great for moving garden debris, soil, lawn clippings, leaves, and even garden tools around the garden with ease. This handy addition is often forgotten about until the time comes to move equipment or heavy garden debris. So, depending on your needs there are several options to choose from, and as with all garden you have a huge choice.
Wheelbarrows are best for heavier objects such as rocks, soil, and mulch. Garden carts are good for smaller loads because they can be pulled along, having wheels for easy mobility. Last but not least the trusty reusable garden bags. These eco-friendly options are great for lighter debris such as leaves and small trimmings. Simply carry the bag to the trash and tip the green waste out. Easy!
These all vary in quality and price so research your specific needs.
Garden Gear For Lawn Maintenance
Generally, for the maintenance of lawns, you would purchase powered equipment that suits the size of the lawn area. and also your budget.
The equipment you may require would either be battery-powered or electric-powered, and there is also gasoline-powered equipment.
Again, all of these choices would depend on personal preference and budget.
The choices are vast, so, it is recommended you do your homework before you make your purchases. Take some time to read customer reviews because they are a great help for first-time buyers. The helpful insight may benefit you when making your brand choices. Definitely food for thought.
Also, consider the warranty in your final decision. For example, how long is it and what does it cover. More importantly, does the brand offer warranty?
Once you make your purchase read the operating instructions that come with the equipment. By following the recommendations in the instruction manual the manufacturer is more likely to cover your claim. Should the need arise, of course?
Another point to consider when purchasing battery-operated equipment, research the size of the battery required to power the machine. You might consider having 2 batteries so you have a backup if you need to recharge during the job. So a good idea is to include the cost of an extra battery in your budget. Just in case.
Brands do offer equipment in kits and there are also combos on the market.
Check out these options to save yourself money.
Garden Gear you may require for lawn care, includes:
*Lawnmower
*Weed Wacker
*Leaf Blower for big areas and driveways.
*String Trimmer
*Lawn/Garden Bed Edger
In Conclusion
Creating and maintaining your garden, your sanctuary is very satisfying. Always work at your own pace and leisure and it won’t seem a chore.
Or, how about involving the family and spend some quality time together in the fresh air.
Young children love to help parents and grandparents in the garden. You can buy them some cute kid-size garden gear for them to use. Just like yours!
For the kids, you can purchase watering cans, rakes, shovels,
and brooms in delightful colors and kid-size convenience. Perfect for little helpers. Cute stuff!
Choose your garden gear wisely, research the best deals for your budget, and make the experience fun. Because it can be fun.
Gardening is a great pastime. Create an area you will love to spend time in.
With as much or little effort as you choose to be able to maintain. It’s a personal experience, relaxing and enjoyable. Trust me!
Having a plan and a shopping list makes it easier to stick to your budget. Giving you peace of mind and saving you money. Win!
Good luck and happy gardening!
You got this!
