Whether you’ve got a small backyard, a large expanse, or something in between, getting your outside space all set for summer can be a huge chore. Despite not knowing what to prioritize first, especially if you are a novice gardener, the expense can put you off before you’ve even started.
I always recommend buying the best you can afford, whether that’s splurging on a premium brand or going with a budget tool instead. But there’s no need to worry if you don’t have an endless pile of dollars to spend; if you take good care of them, keep them clean, sharp and well-oiled, you’ll be making a sound investment.
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1. Pruning shears
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No gardener should ever be without a pair of pruning shears. They are a go-to tool that you’ll probably use more than anything else. I’d always recommend buying a pair of bypass pruners, rather than anvil pruners. The blade to bypass pruners works the same as scissors, while the top blade on an anvil pruner cuts down onto a block.
Bypass pruners are used to deadhead flowers, prune plants and shrubs — generally to tidy up any unruly plants. However, to get the most out of your pruning shears, I would always recommend maintaining them to extend their life.
2. Hori Hori knife
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At first glance, a hori hori knife resembles more of a weapon than a garden tool, but don’t let that put you off — it could be the best garden purchase you ever make.
If you love multi-functional tools, then you’ll appreciate the benefits of a hori hori knife, which makes it a good budget buy, as it can perform more than one task. The sharp blade of the knife is excellent for removing weeds, including deep dandelion roots and those stuck between paving stones. It can even be used as a trowel to dig soil for planting. The blade can also cut through tough roots or garden wire.
3. Gardening gloves
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Whatever level of gardening you do, you need to protect your hands. Apart from keeping your hands dry, a good pair of gardening gloves will allow your skin to breathe, while protecting your hands from cuts, thorns, blisters and possible infections.
A general-purpose pair of gardening gloves should see you through most garden chores; however, for tougher jobs, it’s worth investing in a heavier pair, or one with arm gauntlets to protect your forearms from thorns and scratches.
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4. Two-in-one hoe and fork
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Just like the hori hori knife that has multiple uses, a combined hoe and cultivator offers two tools in one. Apart from saving space if you lack storage, it’s a wise investment when you’re trying to watch your budget. The hoe is ideal for digging the soil to plant seeds and bulbs, while you simply rotate the tool by 180 degrees to use the cultivator, loosening and aerating your soil.
5. Watering can
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All your hard work caring for your garden will go to waste if you don’t water your plants. And instead of looking out onto a lush landscape, your greenery will look neglected, unless you have opted for a dry garden with drought-resistant plants.
If you have a large backyard, you’ll need to invest in a long garden hose to reach the end, but if your outdoor space is on the smaller side, you should be able to manage with a watering can.
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