A good garden starts with the right tools.
Forget gimmicky gadgets that end up buried at the back of the shed—the best tools are the ones that stay in your hands, season after season.
From digging spades to mulch spreaders, these essentials do the heavy lifting, fine-tuning, and everything in between. They’re practical, reliable, and sometimes even a little indulgent (looking at you, hori hori), but each one earns its place in the gardener’s toolkit.
Cutting and Pruning Tools
Because neat, clean cuts mean healthier plants and a happier garden.
Pruning Shears
The go-to for trimming flowers, herbs, and small branches. Bypass pruners for live stems, anvil pruners for deadwood. Look for sharp blades and ergonomic grips—your hands will thank you.
Loppers
Thicker branches? Loppers step up where shears can’t. Telescoping handles give extra reach for high shrubs without a ladder.
Hedge Trimmers
Manual or cordless hedge trimmers are a must for shaping shrubs and keeping hedges neat. If your gardens on the smaller side, manual trimmers work beautifully.
Saws for Big Jobs
A folding hand saw is invaluable for branches that are too tough for loppers. For thicker limbs or heavy-duty work, a lightweight chainsaw might be worth the splurge.
Garden Scissors
Perfect for deadheading flowers, detailed pruning, and harvesting herbs. Keep a pair handy for smaller jobs.
Digging and Planting Tools
Because soil prep is half the battle when creating your dream garden.
Shovel
Round-point shovels dig, plant, and move soil. Flat-point shovels are better for edging and spreading heavy materials.
Hori Hori Knife
A Japanese garden knife that looks like it belongs in a Shakespearean duel but works wonders for planting seedlings, digging out stubborn weeds, and harvesting crops.
Trowel
For planting, transplanting, and loosening small areas of soil. Pick one with depth markings and a comfortable grip—it makes all the difference.
Garden Fork
Essential for aerating soil, breaking up clumps, and turning compost. Look for solid steel tines that won’t bend.
Hoe
An underrated tool for maintaining veggie beds. Use a draw hoe to dig trenches or a scuffle hoe to slice weeds at the root.
Watering and Irrigation Tools
No garden thrives without proper hydration.
Garden Hose
A kink-free, multi-setting hose makes life so much easier. Bonus points if it has an adjustable nozzle with gentle sprays for your more delicate plants to full pressure for cleaning.
Sprinkler System
For consistent, set-and-forget watering. Timed sprinklers are a great option for larger areas and save water.
Watering Can
Perfect for potted plants, container gardens, and seedlings. Look for a detachable spout for controlled pouring.
Drip Irrigation Kit
An efficient way to water directly at the roots, reducing waste and keeping plants hydrated. Essential for veggie patches and thirsty flower beds.
Soil and Maintenance Tools
Healthy soil equals happy plants—and tidy gardens are easier to maintain.
Rake
Metal rakes clear leaves and debris, while flexible garden rakes are perfect for levelling soil and breaking clumps.
Soil Tester
Check your pH, moisture, and nutrient levels to keep plants thriving. A little science goes a long way.
Wheelbarrow
For hauling soil (and rocks), mulch, and supplies, a sturdy wheelbarrow is the offsider you need in the garden.
Mulching Tools
Spread mulch evenly with a manual or wheeled spreader. It saves time and conserves moisture.
Accessories and Safety Gear
Tools that protect you and make gardening easier (and a bit more stylish).
Garden Gloves
No brainer: gloves protect your hands from cuts, thorns, and splinters. Choose breathable, reinforced gloves for comfort during long sessions.
Tool Belt or Apron
Keep everything within reach with a tool belt or apron—multiple pockets, adjustable straps, and waterproof material are ideal.
Garden Kneeler
A padded kneeler reduces strain on your knees and back while planting or weeding. Some even double as portable seats.
Outdoor Storage Shed
Organize your tools and protect them from the elements. Look for weatherproof designs with hooks and shelves.
Garden Cart
A game-changer for moving tools, plants, or soil bags without breaking your back.
Safety Gear
For heavy-duty tasks like tree lopping and hardscaping, always wear safety goggles, ear protection, and sturdy boots.
Twine and Plant Supports
Twine is MVP of your veggie garden. Invaluable for tying plants and supporting climbers. Ditch the plastic ties and go for something you can compost at its end of life.
