7 Essential Garden Tools You Need!
These tools make my gardening job easier, more enjoyable and protect me. You could certainly spend more on #5 and #6 but I can’t justify buying something that costs more just for the brand name or because an influencer endorses it. When I’m working in the flower field these tools are what I rely on.
Farmer's Defense gloves - these gloves are made from a fabric called Repreve, it’s composed of recycled plastic bottles. They are so tough I can de-thorn a rose by simply sliding my palm down the stem. When you choose Farmer's Defense garden gloves you’re making a conscious choice to protect your hands and the environment. I toss mine in the washing machine and hang them to air dry. Did I mention they have touch screen compatibility on the thumb, index and middle finger? You don’t have to rip your glove off to interact with your smartphone. Grab that snap shot of a beautiful rose or reply to a text message without removing your glove.
Farmer's Defense sleeves - These come in multiple sizes and styles and have an SPF 50+ for protection from harmful UV rays. UV rays are the damaging light that causes discoloration, loss of keratin and premature aging in our skin. These sleeves not only protect your arms from harmful sun damage but also from rose thorns, branches and stinging insects. The fabric is breathable to keep you cool and can be machine washed. I air dry mine.
Hori Hori Knife - This Japanese stainless garden tool is in my hand almost every day. I use it for planting, prying out deep rooted weeds, making a trench for sowing, transplanting, cutting twine, prying landscape pins from hard soil and even as a funnel. Keeping the handle oiled and the blade sharpened is the only maintenance it requires. Use caution, this is a sharp blade and will cut through even the toughest garden gloves.
Petra Sprayer - Stop wasting your money on the plastic sprayers from big box discount stores. They are no longer cheap and they rarely last a full growing season. For a few dollars more you can own an American made product that is reliable every time you need to use it. The Petra sprayer comes in various sizes, including a battery powered back-pack. I chose the smaller 1 gallon sprayer since we aren't growing on large acreage and I need a sprayer that can easily be carried down the flower aisles. The Petra sprayer holds pressure and emits a fine mist or steady stream depending on the setting. It is easy to take apart for cleaning and reassemble.
Dickey tool belt - For under $15 I have a seriously amazing tool belt that holds more than a fancy pair of Felco's. From lip balm to zip ties it's all organized in the pockets of my Dickey tool belt and my Hori knife hangs at my side in it's own sheath. Plus I get the satisfaction of taking up the web belt a few notches as my waist line gets slimmer from all the exercise I get gardening. What's not to love? This Dickey tool belt is perfect for gardeners at a great price.
Snips - These micro-snips are perfect for cutting delicate flower stems. You can spend a lot more money but why would you? I have been using these 6 years! They have a lock to protect the stainless blade when not in use. They are extremely sharp! These micro-snips are in my hand every day cutting flowers in the garden and in my floral design studio.
Sun Hat - did you know UV rays can damage your hair and contribute to permanent hair loss? Wearing a hat with a wide brim protects your face, neck and hair. This hat offers SPF 50, the maximum SPF available for fabrics. Made of paper and polyester it is also packable for travel. I love the lanyard for hanging it in my shed after my garden chores are done.
I hope these tools serve you as well as they serve me. I enjoy gardening but it is work and I don't want to waste time on cheap, poorly made tools or overpriced items when a reliable alternative will do the job as well.
Are you a member of our Face book garden group? It's free to join and everyone shares their wins and occasional losses in their growing journey. Whether you grow vegetables, flowers or both you will find support and new friends in the group. Join us here
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