10 Gardening Tools You Need as a Beginner
Gardening can be overwhelming, especially if you have absolutely no experience and have no tools. But fear not because I'm on hand to tell you what you need to get started. In fact, it's everything we went out and bought when we first moved in together and had absolutely no gardening tools. So here's what I think every beginners gardener should own to get started.
1. Gloves
First things first, you need some gloves. It might not seem like a necessity, but it's ideal if you're pulling weeds or pruning roses. It also keeps your hands protected from dirt, insects, bird poo and more. While your garden might seem clean and tidy, animals are constantly running across patios, in between flower beds and along garden walls. Gloves are good idea to protect you from numerous elements, as well as rocks, twigs and thorns.
2. Shears
Shears are a do-it-all tool. They can be used on big shrubs and brushes, as well as small plants and flowers. There are plenty on the market to choose from, each varying in size. Choose some that have extendable handles, like ours, and invest. They can be expensive, but spending £40 on a good pair of shears now means you'll never have to purchase another pair again. Just keep the blades sharp and protect from rust.
3. Hand-held secateurs
You can buy large secateurs, almost as long as the shears on the market. But hand-held secateurs do wonders. They're easy to get to and simple to use. You can dead head flowers and trim back bushes quickly with a pair of hand-held secateurs.
We have two pairs - a small pair and another pair that's the same size as our garden shears. The smaller pair are handy for small jobs and for precision trimming. The larger set are ideal for trimming large and established tree branches. If you don't have trees in your garden, then a simple hand-held pair would suit you just fine if you're just starting out.
4. Garden fork & spade
These often come in a set, but like your garden shears, make sure you're investing in forks and spades now. A good quality fork and spade will last for many years, with the right care. Make sure the metal doesn't rust and keep it stored out of the elements.
Also, you'll be amazed by how often you'll need a garden fork and spade. Whether you're aerating your grass, pulling up large roots or digging a new hole in your border for a new plant addition, they're guaranteed to come in handy.
5. Fork & trowel set
I know we've just talked about a garden fork and spade, but you'll need a small hand-held fork and trowel in your collection as well. These tools are better for more precise gardening jobs, like moving and planting out. A small hand-held fork is also perfect for ripping out tough weeds.
6. Rake
When we first bought our house, I didn't think a garden rake was necessary, but it definitely was. It's great for picking rocks and stones out of soil and compost and it's also ideal for picking up dead grass and clippings from your lawn. You can also use a rake to pick up leaves in autumn.
7. Garden broom/brush
A garden broom or brush is definitely something I would recommend you have in your collection as a beginner gardener. You can do many things with a broom. As well as sweeping patios, pathways and driveways, they can also be used to get rid of cobwebs off bricks and for scraping up bird poo and other things.
8. Hoe
Hoes are great for getting rid of weeds without using chemicals or jet washers. It's actually a very versatile gardening tool that I think everyone should have. It's also great for turning over old soil and for working in fresh compost so your plants and flowers can get some nutrients year after year. I recommend getting a large one with a long handle to make the manual work less back-breaking.
9. Hose
A garden hose will change your life, especially if you're relying on a watering can and your garden is vast. We like to use the gun attachment rather than the nozzle that comes with the hose itself. Our hose is Hozelock, but there are many other brands on the market that will make it far easier for you to water plants, clean gutters and more. You'll be amazed by what you can do with a garden hose.
10. Watering can
Sticking with the theme of water, a watering can is a good thing to have. I know I've just favoured the hose over the can, but it comes in handy for instances where hosepipe bans are in place. It's also less messy and more precise when it comes to getting the water to where it needs to be. I like to use a watering can for hanging baskets rather than a hose, because I know the water used is getting where it needs to. It also helps to conserve water.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post and found it useful? Let me know in the comments below what you think a beginner gardener should have in their collection and I'll see you all again soon with some brand new content!
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