Bare Minimum Garden Tools

Like everything else in life, gardening is easier when you have the right tools. However, tools can be costly, so what are the bare minimum garden tools you really need?

It's important to invest in durable tools that won't break or bend, as flimsy equipment can lead to frustration and inefficiency. You don't need to splurge on the highest-end options, but it's best to avoid the low-quality, $2 tools.

Instead, choose tools that are built to last and will serve you well on your gardening journey. Get sturdy tools with a comfortable weight and grip. I like the ones with cords or holes in the handles so I can hang them up.

This guide to the bare minimum garden tools will help you identify the essential gardening tools you need without overspending. Aim for tools that are reliable and will serve you well.

Bare Minimum Garden Tools: The Handy Hand Trowel

Hand Trowel: This small spade is essential for planting, scooping, and digging. It’s crucial to choose one that is strong, well-weighted, and comfortable in your hand since you will use it frequently.

For regular gardening tasks, opt for a drop shank trowel, which has a slight bend in the metal above the handle. For planting bulbs, a straight-shank trowel is recommended.

Choose a drop shank trowel (one with a slight bend in the metal above the handle) for regular work. Use a straight-shank trowel for for planting bulbs.

Pruners

Pruners: There are two main types of pruners that you will need: anvil pruners and bypass pruners.

Anvil pruners function by pinching the stem against a flat base, making them ideal for cutting through dry or tough stems and branches.

Bypass pruners, on the other hand, operate more like scissors, with two blades passing each other. These are better suited for pruning younger, green stems and branches.

When choosing pruners, look for those with adjustable blades to accommodate stems of varying thickness.

Shovel

Shovel: You need a shovel to dig holes for larger plants, especially if your soil is hard and compacted. (I had to use a pickaxe.) Choose a round-point shovel for routine yard work.

Garden Tools Tote

You'll need a way to carry your bare minimum garden tools around the yard; otherwise, you might find yourself frustrated. The container can be as simple as a plastic bucket or as sophisticated as a rolling gardening cart equipped with a cushioned seat.

I particularly like the bucket organizer, which is a cloth bib with pockets designed to fit over a five-gallon bucket. This way, I can toss weeds into the bucket while conveniently hanging all my tools on the side.

You could also use a plastic caddy, a canvas tool tote bag, a tool belt, or a pocketed apron. It's your call, but you will need something.

Garden Hose

A garden hose is one of the bare minimum garden tools.

If you have an irrigation system, you are in fine shape. But you will still need a hose to water in new transplants and potted plants. Ensure the hose is long enough to reach all parts of your yard, or consider getting one for the front and another for the backyard.

People in apartments or condos can get away with lightweight hoses, but if you have a yard, consider getting a medium or heavy-weight hose. It is not only more durable but coils more easily.

Most people will also want a gadget to roll up and store the garden hose to keep it neat. But that's not essential.

Gloves

You hate gloves, and I'm not too fond of gloves, but you must wear them to protect your hands from cuts and blisters. Also, gardening will dry out your skin.

There are several different types of gloves (of course). Many people like leather gloves, but I find them too clumsy. I prefer cool cloth gloves with rubberized grips on the palms and fingers. I wear rubber gloves with a cotton lining when gardening in wet soil.

Kneeling Pad

Anyone who has gardened would certainly put kneeling pads on the necessity list. These foam rubber pads will save your knees.

Bare Minimum Garden Tools - A Gardening Hat

I never wear a hat. I always mean to wear a hat, but I always forget. Do as I say, not as I do.

Bare Minimum Garden Tools - Gardening Clogs

OK, you don't necessarily need clogs, but you need waterproof shoes that you can easily slip on and off so you don't track dirt into your house. Rubber clogs work best for me.