ALL GARDENING ZONE

It is very important to get the right basic tools. The right tools make any job easier and gardening is no exception. Gardeners may collect many tools over the years, but they have to start with a few items that a garden can’t absolutely go without. If you are just starting out, there are a few basic tools that will get you started.

The following are recommended for the beginners or novice gardeners:

1. Spading Fork

Before you plant anything, you will need to open and improve the soil. This gardening tool is used for breaking up the firm soil. A spading fork looks like a pitchfork but has a shorter handle and wider tines. It is especially effective in hard soil and could easily turn compacted soil into smooth and even ground.

2. Hoe

A hoe is useful for weeding and cultivating the surface of the soil to allow for penetration of nutrients and water. Apart from the cultivation of the soil, hoes can also be used in weeding and digging since they penetrate easier into the soil.

3. Shovel/Spade

Shovels/Spades are needed for larger digging projects, such as planting shrubs and trees. Garden shovels have round, pointed blades while spades have straight bales set at an angle. They’re absolutely necessary for moving soil, digging holes and planting.

4. Trowels

Most planting will require you get down on your knees with a trowel. Steel blades will last longest. Handle choice is a matter of personal preference. Soft rubber handles are easier on the grip. There are also ergonomic designs that take the stress off of your wrist. A narrow blade is good for digging in solid soil. Wide, rounded blades remove soil faster.

5. Rake

Rakes have short tines on one side attached to a metal frame or bow. They are used for leveling the soil after it has been turned and prior to planting, or for removing large clods of earth or rocks from the soil. A bow rake on its the flat side can be used to smooth soil in preparation for planting. Rakes can also help you get fall’s leaves out of your gardens and also collect all your garden debris. As with trowels, many rakes now come with ergonomic handles that put less stress on your back.

6. Watering Can

The size of a watering can is dependent on the individual using it. Ideally the user should be able to lift it and properly carry it while it is full. A good watering can should have a handle that balances in the hand. Long nozzles allow the water to come out at a very gentle flow rate and are useful for reaching across long distances. Select a watering can that has a detachable spray head – this type of watering can is perfect for watering young seedlings.

8. Water Hose

When it comes to hoses, price is often an indication of quality. Points to compare start with burst strength or how much pressure a hose can handle before it bursts open. 50 pounds per sq. inch is a good strength. The wider the hose, the more water can flow through it. ½ inch is fine, but 5/8 inch is better. Finally there is the material the hose is made from. Rubber will withstand the weather better. Look also for one that claims to be kink resistant, to make your life easier.

Some Helpful Tips:

• Forged tools will cost more, but they are more durable.
• Long handles provide more leverage. Short handles provide ore control, but can be hard on the back.
• Use a steel brush to clean off tools after each use.
• Keep handles from drying by rubbing with linseed oil.
• Sharpen your tools before storing for the winter. Protect with a coat of oil, wax or petroleum jelly
• Check and tighten screws and fasteners often.

Now we can get started, happy gardening!

There is an ever increasing interest in gardens today even among the young and the old. When it comes to learning to garden it is very important to invest on references. Gardening vegetable and fruits can be quite a challenge, but it can also be one of the most rewarding and satisfying things to do. With so many people looking for a way to dedicate their time to something peaceful and rewarding, this is the perfect way to go.

The internet is currently the best source of information for gardening tips. There are countless of websites dedicated to gardening, providing vital information and insights, gathered and shared by people with same interests from all over the world.

It is also important to join forums and message boards. This is a great way to interact with others on gardening aspects and gain some very helpful insights and tips. Gardening can be difficult when you are armed only with a little knowledge, but by interacting with others who have already gained experiences in the area, it is the perfect method to learn! In fact, you can log into a website, sign up for newsletters, blogs, and even post a few messages. It’s a great and fun way to meet new people, too.

Another helpful tool is the usual traditional gardening book. If you enjoy reading, you will find pleasure in the activity. Of course books are everywhere – they are available in public libraries, the local bookstores, and even in the internet. Because they are not bound by the limits of space, books can provide a much more extensive information on a certain topic than the brief summaries provided in the internet sites. But whether one uses websites or books for that matter, they are both good sources of information, guides, and tips.

And last but never the least, it is still noteworthy to join garden clubs and other garden organizations in one’s local area. Nothing beats discussion and sharing notes personally. There is nothing more fundamental that that.