Garden Tools
Gardening is tool-intensive labor. Having the right tool can make all the difference between a pleasant day working in the garden and a backbreaking day of hard labor. Having a tool that is comfortable for you to use is also important. Make sure it's light enough for you to use easily and has a handle or grip that is comfortable for you.
To keep the guides at a manageable length,
hand tools (including pruning tools) have their own wiki page.
Before plunging into tools (so to speak), take a quick look at the different types of handles.
Handles
Handle Shapes
Handle Materials
Handles can be made of
steel. Additionally, they may be padded or cushioned to make them more comfortable to use.
*
Wood handles are flexible and can last a long time with proper care.
*
Fiberglass is strong and not as prone to weather damage. It's more expensive than wood.
*
Steel is very strong and durable, but easily transmits vibrations and cold.
Handle Attachments
Handles can be attached to the head of the tool in a number of ways.
* '''Socket''' a metal sheath extends from the head of the tool and the handle slides in. Less expensive.
* '''Socket with rivets''' a socket reinforced with screws or bolts for extra strength.
* '''Tang and ferrule''' a metal tang extends from the head of the tool and slides into a metal ferrule (sheath) on the handle.
Shovels and Spades
Shovels are larger and more scoop-like for moving large amounts of material; spades are smaller and flatter.
===
Rakes and Cultivators===
Rakes and
cultivators look like big combs for your garden, and that's exactly what they do. You can use them to gather things together or to break up the soil.
!
Forks
Garden forks are kind of like
forks you would use to eat; they can lift, turn, stab, and fluff.
Hoes
Hoes are one of the most versatile garden tools. They can be used to dig, chop, lift, mix, remove weeds, and just about anything else.
Other Tools
There are always lots of things to do in the garden. Make sure you have the right
tool for the odd jobs that come up.
