5 Essential Garden Maintenance Tools
As a provider of local gardening services, we know that the secret to garden maintenance is to have access to the right tools. However, it is easy to go overboard here. Tools can take up a lot of space and can be costly. Therefore, we recommend that you stock up on the basics at first to avoid buying things you don’t need. Here are 5 essential gardening tools that any new gardener should purchase.
Pruning Shears
Secateurs, or hand pruners, can help to reign in plants that are growing out of control. Anvil- style pruners are useful in that they can be cut with a sharp blade meeting a flat surface. Much like a knife on a board. Alternatively, Bypass pruners will cut with a sharp blade passing by a flat surface with a sharp edge – similar to scissors.
An anvil pruner is best used for dead wood, However, be careful with these as they can cause crush injuries to flesh, branches and green stems.
On the other hand, bypass pruners are best used for live plants and green wood.
Gloves
One of the most painful parts of gardening is thorns and splinters. For this reason, it is important to invest in a pair of gardening gloves. A good glove will be durable yet not too bulky. You also want to ensure that the glove fits properly. This will help to avoid blisters.
Rake
Especially in the Autumn when leaves and debris fall from trees, you will want to have access to a rake. These can come in many different styles and sizes. That being said, a standard leaf rake is the perfect place to start.
An adjustable rake can be handy as they can help reach narrow areas. Steel tines are also great due to their strength. These may be rougher on more delicate lawns than that of a plastic tine.
Watering Can
Another basic yet essential tool you will need for gardening is a watering can. These often can be divided into metal and plastic cans.
Plastic cans are often lighter than metal. However, due to the material they are often not as long-lasting. It is important for metal cans to be galvanised to avoid rusting.
Hoe
Which hoe is best for you will be dependent on your garden. Vegetable gardens may need a sturdy and wide hoe. Alternatively for perennial gardens, a thinner hoe with a more delicate touch may be required. As a whole, hoes can be useful in preparing flower beds as well as for cutting down weeds.
Summary
Especially if you are a new gardener, it might be tempting to go down to your local gardening centre and buy a wide range of tools. However, doing so may waste a lot of money. As a local gardening service, we suggest that you start with some of the basics outlined in this article. Basic tools such as gloves will make life much easier as you will be less likely to injure yourself on thorns. Other additions such as pruning shears, rakes and hoes, will help to speed up maintenance.
Contact Us – Local Gardening Service
As a local gardening service, BZ gardens can help with a range of garden maintenance, from waste disposal, estate management, landscape design and much more. We create and care for unique gardens and open spaces for residential, commercial and public clients across London, Greater London. Should you need support with your end of tenancy garden maintenance, contact us and we will be happy to help with your enquiries.