Let's Grow Stuff

- Greetings from the garden!

My name is Ben and welcome back to Let's Grow Stuff.

Today, we're covering essential garden tools and essential tool care.

So, let's jump in and get started.

Having the right tool for the job in the garden is always important.

Two essential tools that I can't live without are pruners and a soil knife.

First up: the soil knife, also known as a "hori-hori."

It can help us with nearly every regular task in the garden.

It works as a trowel because it's well-sized to dig small holes for transplants or for planting bulbs.

Look for one that has a built-in ruler on the blade so that you know how deep you're digging.

This is especially helpful for bulbs which need to be planted at specific depths.

It's also a great tool for weeding, especially smaller plants with taproots like dandelions.

Finally, a soil knife is just that-- one edge is serrated, and another is a smooth, sharp edge.

This comes in very handy when dividing perennials with thick root systems.

When shopping for your soil knife, look for one that is a single piece of molded steel.

These tools are more durable, and with proper care, can last for decades.

Our 2nd essential tool are pruners!

Like a soil knife, you'll find yourself reaching for your pruners literally all the time because there is always something to cut or snip in the garden.

A quality pair of pruners will probably cost you between about $35 and $55.

And today, we're covering the essential pruner TLC of caring for the spring mechanism.

Start by soaking the spring and cutting edges in a gentle cleaning solution of white vinegar.

Let them sit in a bowl for about 30 minutes.

This will help release any built-up residue, soil, or rust.

Use a coarse brush or scouring pad after soaking for any stubborn spots.

After scrubbing, rinse pruners in clean water.

Next, apply some lubricant to the spring mechanism and compress and release it a few times.

If you're hearing a grinding noise, or you're encountering some resistance, it may also just be time to replace the spring, and they are far cheaper than buying an entirely new tool.

It's a good idea to sharpen your soil knife and pruners at least once a year.

It's also a good idea to purchase a belt holster for these hand tools so they don't get lost in the garden.

Here are a few other helpful tools to have on hand, especially if you're just getting started.

Something to haul stuff.

And if you're growing in a small space, a heavy-duty, water-tight bucket should suffice.

This is great for hauling things like soil, water, and compost.

You may also want to consider a round-edge shovel, heavy rake, and some kind of cultivator or hoe.

When it comes to caring for any tools, keep them clean and remove any caked-on soil after each use.

And don't leave them outdoors.

Store them in a garage or shed or basement to protect them from weather.

Well, there you have it-- investing in quality tools and giving them the proper care will help to make your gardening experience more rewarding and enjoyable for years to come.

Because having the proper tool for the proper job matters.

Well, don't forget that there is so much more to learn on the Let's Grow Stuff website at pbswisconsin.org/ letsgrowstuff There we have more blogs, tips, tricks, and videos to help you in your own gardening journey.

Until next time, happy gardening!

- Funding for Let's Grow Stuff is provided by American Transmission Company, Ganshert Nursery & Landscapes, Willy Street Co-op, Focus Fund for Wisconsin Programming, and Friends of PBS Wisconsin.