The Top 5 Things Every Gardener Needs

Although gardening is a hands-on job there are a few pieces of equipment that help get the job done accurately, efficiently, and injury-free. These are our top five must-haves for every gardener.

1. Gardening gloves

Gardening gloves are made with thick protective fabric and some have small gripping pads on the fingers. When gardening, you are bound to come across some hard and sharp objects that can easily cause cuts, scrapes, and splinters. Hiding insects, bugs and thorns can also cause stings, bites, and rashes.

Additionally, soil contains a wide range of fungi and bacteria. Although many of them serve a good purpose, there are also microorganisms that cause serious harm. These commonly enter through cuts, scrapes, or splinters. Decaying organic matter, compost, and animal manure are also common sources of bacteria that can cause infections. 

Simply wearing a pair of gardening gloves will keep you protected from all these small hazards that can quickly turn into serious conditions.

2. A trowel 

This small hand tool will make your gardening life a whole lot easier. It looks like a mini shovel and is used for digging, smoothing, breaking up clumps of soil, transplanting seedlings, applying fertilizer and lifting out weeds. Choose a trowel with sturdy construction and a metal blade. These are durable and won’t crack when pressure is applied to get through stubborn soil.

3. Pruning shears 

Pruning shears are used for cutting back bushes, pruning and harvesting. They provide a clean cut, ensuring that you don’t damage the plant. When pruned correctly, your plant will grow stronger and better next season. Trying to short-cut the job by using your hands or a pair of regular scissors will damage and tear the plant. If this happens, there likely won’t be any regrowth. 

Regular pruning shears are generally good for branches two inches or less in diameter. Pruning can also be tiring on the hands. If you suffer from arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, look for an ergonomically designed pair. These have cushioned and rotating handles to reduce pressure and wrist strain. Selected stores also have shears for left-handed users.

4. Adjustable garden hose nozzle

We’re assuming you already have a garden hose. If you don’t, try to get a combination hose and adjustable nozzle set. An adjustable garden hose nozzle allows you to customize the flow of water. You can lightly dampen the soil, soak dry ground or clean dirt from the driveway, all with the appropriate pressure and water flow. 

Some nozzles allow you to set up a stationary sprinkler which makes watering your lawn and large flower beds much easier. A nozzle also allows you to stop the water flow from the tip. This means that you don’t have to run back and forth to the tap to switch the water on and off while you are busy. 

5. Kneeling pad

Weeding, planting herbs or flowerbeds and laying edging all require time on your knees or haunches. Most people aren’t comfortable on their haunches for extended periods. If you’re bending down from a standing position, you’ll likely develop back pain pretty quickly. This makes kneeling the best option, but also the dirtiest. 

To protect your knees, provide cushioning and keep them clean a kneeling pad is a great gardening accessory. They’re light so you can easily move them around and they’ll save you a great deal of discomfort.

Happy gardening!