Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Over the Garden Fence
When it comes to garden tools, size definitely matters. Pay attention to the handle size and test different
lengths to see which is more comfortable for you, because if the handle is too short your hand tools will
cost you a lot of energy to use. I like to find the handles that are in the 18-inch range for my hand tools,
while my long-handled shovels and hoes are better in the 36- to 40-inch range given my shorter stature.
Can you have too many hand tools? Not as far as I'm concerned!
(Photo courtesy of Brannan Sirratt)
Garden Spade or Trowel
A garden spade is a must. I actually have two different styles that I like to use for different pur-
poses. Plus my kids can confiscate one and I still have another to work with. Really, though, while
they can be used interchangeably, there are times when one shines over the other.
A narrow spade is easier for creating small holes for seeds, or digging in dry, compact soil. The
narrow blade on this spade means I won't disturb the roots of other plants in an established garden
bed, mixed border, or container planting.
I also have a deeper garden trowel that will move a larger amount of dirt. This is perfect when
I'm transplanting plants and want to preserve a larger rootball. It's also good for digging a slightly
larger hole, a longer row, or building a new container planting, as it will move dirt faster.
Pay close attention to the make of the tool before you purchase it. Cheap wooden handles will dry
up and become loose very quickly, so look for high-quality ash handles. Or consider the soft-grip,
comfort handles with strong resin or vinyl handles. Weak metal blades will bend with the kind
