Friday, January 30, 2009

Lawn and Garden Tools You Can't Live Without

By Charlene Sim

Back in the old days, using a scythe was the only way to chop down grass. And that was only if anyone even bothered to cut it. Landscaping has progressed considerably since that time. There are more kinds of lawn and garden tools than you can count that are considered critical for maintaining a luxurious landscape.

If you have a lawn, you unquestionably need a lawnmower. It might be difficult to understand that your grass actually has to be hacked off in order to remain in good condition, but it's true. A lawnmower will likely be your most expensive purchase when it comes to lawn care. However, if you maintain it well, it should last you for many years to come.

Unfortunately, a lawnmower alone won't keep your yard trim. You'll also need a lawn trimmer for hard to reach places. You might choose to use the traditional hand operated model that looks like a giant pair of scissors. The other option is an electric device that uses a plastic string to chop off grass and weeds. The string spins at ultra high speeds and is very powerful, so be careful when using it.

A spreader is also an invaluable tool to have around. They are useful for the even distribution of granular products such as fertilizer, weed killer and grass seed. Some spreaders look like a tub on wheels. They have small holes that distribute the product as you push it along. Alternatively, you can get a hand held unit. This is most often a boxy plastic cup that, when you turn its handle, empties its contents onto the lawn below. These are appropriate for smaller areas that might need a little reseeding or spot fertilizing.

You'll also need a rake in order to scoop up all the leaves on the ground in the fall. If left untouched, the leaves will almost certainly do harm to your lawn during the winter months. Once the snow melts in the spring, you'll find that the grass has become smothered and parched by the presence of the leaves.

Even if you raked up the leaves in the fall, you'll still find that your grass has become matted over the winter months. This thatching effect will prevent oxygen and other essential nutrients from working their way into the soil. Your rake will come in handy once again to straighten up your lawn.

It's practically impossible to tend to your yard without a shovel. A shovel with a narrow head is good for attacking clumps of weeds. For moving soil and digging plants, you'll need a good sized square or rounded shovel. Actually, you'll find this tool useful for a wide variety of backyard activities.

Purchase the highest quality equipment you can and take good care of it. Tending to your lawn will be considerably more pleasurable. And you're certain to make all the neighbors jealous.

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