All gardens are not the same, therefore the types of garden tools for each garden differ. Some garden shops carry tools for all kinds of gardens, while others specialize in tools for a specific type of garden. Some other garden tool stores have alternative tools such as organic fertilizers, natural pest controls, and ergonomic garden tools. The alternative stores usually have the best products. You must know what kind of garden you have to be able to find the correct tools that will make your work much easier.



The following information includes descriptions of some common tools and the jobs that they help to complete.

Secateurs are used for basic pruning, and typically cost from $50 - $130. You should find a model whose blades can be either replaced or sharpened, because dull blades can damage your plants. The one you purchase should also have tension control, and you should check to make sure that it's comfortable in your hands.

To prune hedges and shrubs, hedge trimmers are probably the best option. Some of them are available with curved blades so branches won't slide out when they are cut.

To turn and aerate compost and soil, forks are used. Forks have been around for a very long time, and are very helpful. The older designs work very well. Simplicity and sturdiness is good for forks. They typically cost from $30 - $100.

You may be confused about the difference between a shovel and a spade. A shovel has a scoop blade and is used to move around dirt and soil in the garden. A spade, on the other hand, has a flat blade that is used for cutting edges, and digging and dividing plants. Spades should be kept very sharp. You should expect to pay $30 - $50 for a spade. A shovel or spade is pretty much a necessity for any type of garden.

If you have plants such as roses, a pruning saw can come in handy but may not be needed with common indoor plants. They have a blade that can fit between stems or branches, and it easily cuts through them. They cost $27-$55.

You don't have to spend too much money to get great gardening tools. It is helpful to check flea markets and garage sales for high quality tools at good prices. No matter what, you will need some tools to care for your garden.