CHOOSING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR THE GARDENING JOB
As Christmas approaches why not put a few garden tools and accessories on your Christmas list?
The right tools make such a difference to the gardening task and in the winter the right clothes also make a big difference.
Here are some ideas based on my gardening experience.
· A good pair of winter gardening gloves make all the difference – they don’t have to be expensive so go for the rubber palm and knitted back with a fleecy lining – once they are really dirty you can just throw them away.
· Wellies are fine but not always really comfortable if they have a high, narrow leg – do try them on before you buy and see how they feel as you kneel down and squat. Shorter boots are often more comfortable. Add a pair of thermal insoles for really warm winter gardening.
· If you have small hands don’t be afraid to buy smaller and lighter secateurs, snips, shears and loppers. It will make a real difference – Felco secateurs are expensive but worth it and they do small sizes. Whatever you buy do make sure the handles are orange, pink or red so you won’t lose them in the garden.
· Spades and forks come in many different sizes and materials. A lighter spade and fork is available for smaller people (or ladies) and will be so much more manageable. For keen women gardeners try a border spade – light, narrow and sharp. If you can, buy stainless steel tools, as they are sharper and easier to clean. They are, however, a bit softer so the fork tines may bend if you attack stones or thick roots.
· If you have an ornamental lawn you should use a stainless steel lawn edging tool and a pair of lawn shears. For both tools the lighter the better and choose one, which is suitable for your height, so you don’t put too much strain on your back.
· Finally, you can never have too many ‘tub trugs’ – they are cheap, almost indestructible and come in several sizes so you can use for many different tasks in the garden. When tidying up your borders have two nearby – one for weeds to go into the council bin and one for leaves and other plants, which can go into your compost bin.
There are a few jobs in the garden in November – finish planting tulip bulbs, clear up leaves, plant new “bare root” trees and roses and move any perennials or shrubs whilst the ground is still warm and we are guaranteed plenty of rain!
Let me know if you need me to come and review your garden over the winter – it’s a good time to look at the structure and plan for all season interest.
Happy Gardening!
Sarah – the Garden Doctor.
Cyclamen hederifolium