Most Useful Lawn and Garden Tools

Beautiful lawns and gardens don't just happen. They require a lot of work and dedication, as well as constant attention. The people that manufacture lawn and garden tools realize that gardeners are a hard working breed, and would like us to believe that we need a different gadget for every job in the yard. The truth is, many tools can be used for more than one purpose, and spending the money on these useless gadgets just isn't necessary.

Let's examine some of the tools that will prove to be the most useful for tending to the yard or garden.

Trowel - A garden trowel is similar to a small, hand-held shovel. No gardener should be without this great little tool. Whether you are digging up a spot for new colorful spring flowers, pulling weeds from the garden, or replanting your favorite container plant, this is an item you will come to depend on.

Shovel - Everyone needs a durable shovel when working outdoors. A shovel can dig large holes for planting trees or shrubbery, or can be used to pick up and move large clumps of dirt or other debris.

Rake - A rake is a very basic yard tool, used to gather leaves, dirt, or other debris. There are some things a shovel simply cannot pick up, which is usually when a rake comes in handy.

Garden hoe - There are two types of garden hoes, a cutting hoe and a draw hoe. A draw hoe can be replaced by other items listed here; however, a cutting hoe is essential, as it can be pushed back and forth to cut the soil, making it ideal for edging.

Garden fork - A garden fork has a long handle with several (usually three or four) short "teeth". It can serve many purposes, including cultivating soil, breaking new ground, tilling the garden, aerating the yard, removing debris, and so much more. This is a heavy duty gardening tool that everyone should have in the garage or shed. Hand-held garden forks are also available, which are much easier to use in small garden areas.

Before purchasing any lawn and garden tool, handle them to test for comfort. When selecting your tools, keep in mind that copper based metals are most beneficial to the soil, as copper is non-magnetic and will not add traces of metal when used. This type of tool wears nicely and will not corrode as easily as garden tools made of other materials.