Top Tools for Growing a Garden

April 14, 2014 Editorial Staff

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(Family Features) Whether starting a new hobby or you just want to upgrade the gear you already have, there are many different tools designed to make maintaining your garden less of a burden.

You dont have to be intimidated by the huge display of gardening tools and supplies at the hardware store. Avoid spending money on unnecessary items you wont use with these five must-have tools every gardener should have on hand.

Hand rake Loosen or turn soil easily with the use of this handy, three-pronged tool. Look for sturdy models made with rust-resistant aluminum or stainless steel.

Shovel Novice or pro, every gardener should invest in this basic tool. Great for extracting plants already in the ground or moving dirt and other materials shovels serve a multitude of functions. Be sure to keep the blade in proper form by sharpening at the beginning of each new planting season.

Shears To remove debris and foster continual growth, a well-kept garden requires plenty of cutting. Its important to have several pairs for different tasks. For example, large shears are great for tackling branches while smaller ones are best for tending flower beds.

Garden spade Though it looks similar to a shovel, a garden spade is a very different tool. With its short handle, a garden spade is mainly used for cutting through difficult materials like sod or for edging garden beds. When purchasing a spade, go for lasting, rust-resistant stainless steel options so you can use it in your garden year after year.

Gloves To protect your hands from the various materials you may come in contact with while gardening, its important to have a variety of gloves to suit each task. A pair of thick, long gloves is perfect for work with thorny or sticky plants, while a cotton set will help keep your hands clear of blisters from repetitive shoveling or pruning.

Once you have these basic tools in your possession, youll be well on the way to a fruitful and productive gardening season.