Essential Gardening Tools for Beginners

Having the right tools play a big role in the success of any garden project. But with so many choices on offer at your local hardware store, it can be hard to know how to know where to begin with putting together your tool kit. 

We’ve put together this handy garden tool guide to help you get started. 

A good garden hose

On-demand access to water for all areas of your garden is essential, and a garden hose is the most common way to achieve this. While it might seem straightforward, it’s worth taking the time to ensure you have the best garden hose for the job. 

Hose length is a key factor to consider. Hoses generally come in lengths of 10-30 metres, and can be joined together using a hose joiner or coupling attachment if needed. If you’re routinely unwinding your hose over a long distance, consider a kinkless hose. 

You’ll also want to look at how the water comes out. A regular nozzle may be all you need, but there are great benefits to a hand trigger gun that lets you control the flow and spray type. A hose wand will help you water hard-to-reach spots like hanging baskets. 

The right power tools

When it comes to big-ticket power tools for the garden, the trick is to focus on what you actually need and invest your dollars there. 

Start by figuring out what’s essential. Lawn tools like mowers and edgers will top your list if you have an expanse of lawn to keep tidy. Large or sloping lawns usually require powerful mowers, while simpler, more compact models suit small, flat lawns. 

If your garden or streetfront has a lot of deciduous trees, you may want some help in the leaf department. If that’s you, invest in the best leaf blower you can afford, as you’ll be putting it through its paces year after year. 

Hand tools

The best gardening tools are often the simplest, powered by nothing more than a bit of elbow grease. Properly maintained, a high-quality set of basic tools will last you for many years, if not a lifetime. 

Small hand tools like a trowel, digging fork and pruners/secateurs are essentials for virtually any gardener. Even if your gardening is confined to a window box or indoor potted plants, these tools will serve you well. For turning over beds or compost heaps, digging larger holes or shifting soil, you’ll want a long handled spade and fork. 

As you get to know your garden better, you may discover a need for a hand saw, hoe, rake or wheelbarrow. Start with the basics and build up from there to create your perfect toolkit. 

We’re here to help

At Park Road Timber & Hardware, we’ve got a huge range of essential garden supplies and tools. Whether you need advice on the best lawn mowers for your yard, a particular hose fitting or something else, our team is here to help. Check out our catalogue or drop in to the store to find out more.