The Garden Tools You Actually Need

To our expert and beginner gardening friends, real question: how many gardening tools do you have in your arsenal and which do you actually use? While it’s important to have the necessary tools to garden to your heart’s desire, how much it too much? How many trowels do you really need? If you’re trying to reduce clutter or a novice gardener putting together your toolkit, this post is for you. We’re digging in and sharing the gardening tools you actually need, because honestly, no one needs 17 tools when it only requires 8 to get the job done. Keep reading for more…

1. Gloves

You’ll always need something to protect your hands while you’re working, and to prevent any accidents from happening too. Gloves should definitely be in your arsenal. Potting, shoveling, digging—they’re a must-have.

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2. Pruning Shears

While there are a few types, we recommend starting with a bypass shear as it’s the most popular and like scissors. We should note normal craft scissors might work here and there, but they won’t get the job done with stronger, thicker stemmed-plants. So yes, invest in a good pair of pruning shears for plant maintenance.

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3.Cultivator

Cultivators, or hand forks, are a very helpful addition to your arsenal when you need to dig or stir up soil {and even pull up weeds!}.

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4. Rake

You may even have a rake at home already, but if you don’t, it’s about time you get one. This may be needed only for those of you that have a yard to actually rake on, but this tool is perfect for scraping, gathering, and leveling your soil.

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5. Watering Can

This one’s kind of a no-brainer, but having a designated water can to water your plants daily, weekly, or whatever schedule you have for your plant babies is, well, a must-have.

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6. Hoe

Loosen soil, till, dig—the garden hoe has a flat blade that’s great for digging small trenches, shaping soil, and even removing weeds.  For the lovely home garden you’re building this summer, definitely add this one to your cart.

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7. Trowel

You need a trowel. We repeat. You need a trowel. This versatile tool is probably the one you should start with if you’re building your tool kit. Digging, scooping, moving your plants around— you have to have this, no questions asked.

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8. Shovel

A shovel is really an essential, especially for those of you with a large yard or space with more surface area to cover. This is the tool you’ll need for building a larger garden and taking on bigger home projects. Plus, it’s multipurpose too!

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Which gardening tools do you think are essential to your practice?

Tell us your best tips below!

XO Team LC

Photos: Lauren Conrad

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