Finding the right set of landscaping tools might be daunting, given the variety. Sometimes it happens that some purchased items are not needed and can be entirely replaced by other instruments. Take your time and approach the process of finding the right products wisely. To avoid unnecessary costs, follow these five steps.
Step 1: Outline a Plan
There are various gardeners who “see” their backyard differently. Someone wants to plant a fluffy lawn and make several small flower beds. Others dream of growing a rich harvest of berries, vegetables, and fruits. If you outline an action plan, you will know for sure whether one classic landscape rake is enough or you need to buy several diverse kinds. Besides, different tools might be required for the same type of work with different plants. For example, you can prune flowers with hand tools, while for pruning thick tree branches, it is better to get a power device.
Step 2: Make a List
After you decide what exactly and where will grow on your site, make a detailed shopping list. Divide all the necessary instruments into several categories:
Hand tools. As a rule, the list of such products is the widest. You will almost certainly need a shovel, rake, pruning shears, hoe, pitchfork, and so on.
Power tools. Some hand instruments can be replaced by electric or gas devices. For example, for large-scale pruning work, it is better to buy a pole chainsaw or hedge trimmer instead of shears.
PPE. Protective equipment should not be neglected, especially when working with power tools. Depending on the specifics of the upcoming work, you might need goggles, gloves, earmuffs, respirators, and so on.
Other stuff. Among other things, you will probably need tools for working with water, such as watering cans or hoses. It is also worth purchasing several buckets of different sizes, nets, and markers.
Step 3: Check Out Available Options
It is a key factor in the correct budget allocation. Tools such as rakes, shovels, gloves, and so on are considered consumables and can be bought new at a store. At the same time, high-quality power devices cost several hundred dollars. Unless you plan on using them really often, buying them won’t pay off soon enough. In such a case, it is better to rent equipment or take a used product. The main thing is to carefully inspect a device for problems before using it or consult a mechanic to avoid issues.
Step 4: Research the Market
After you have decided on the list of the necessary tools, it is worth reading about the popular brands and the most commonly used models. The cheapest options won’t hurt your budget at first glance. However, their service life is much shorter, which means you will have to buy new tools soon. The most expensive products are of excellent quality and might have features that cheap counterparts do not have. As a rule, tools from the middle price range fully meet buyers’ expectations and, with proper care, can last more than one season.
Step 5: Go to a Store
Now that you know which instruments you need for your garden, start shopping. Do not forget to carefully inspect each item for build quality, reliability of all fasteners, and the presence of the features you need. Remember that tool ergonomics is essential during long-term use. If you buy goods from a regular, not an online store, hold them in your hand to appreciate the comfort of handles.
Do Not Hesitate to Ask for Advice
Finally, if you are unsure about the purpose of a particular tool, or do not know which model to choose, ask the store consultants for advice. Based on their experience and knowledge, specialists will help you make the right choice.