Tools and Equipment for Allotment Gardening

Whether a new or an experienced gardener, all have one thing in common and that is tools and equipment for allotment gardening. Gardening can be an incredibly rewarding experience but can also be one of the most frustrating experiences. Whilst some of us are more than willing to put in the hours and the work required to ensure that we have a thriving garden, others tend to find it much more of a challenge. Whilst having the right tools and equipment for gardening will go a long way to ensuring that your garden remains a thriving and attractive garden, there is more to it than just having the tools. Equally, having the wrong tools or equipment for gardening can lead to your garden not being as successful as you would like it to be.

1. Basic Tools for Allotment

The types of tools and equipment for allotment gardening are actually very minimal compared to what is required for formal garden planting. There is no need to buy the huge range of garden equipment which has become popular over the years. You can get by with very basic tools such as those used for garden maintenance, general garden tools, hoes, rakes, spades, digging trowels, scissors, spades, levelers and other equipment required for gardening.

2. Spades

One of the most important pieces of equipment for any gardener is a spade. Spades are the tools of choice for those who like to dig up dirt and maintain a lawn, however there are also many types that can be used for allotment gardening as well. A shovel can be used to till the soil or move it around. A tiller is essential for removing burned areas of stonework or other types of materials, especially if the land has been treated with an organic material.

3. Hatchet

A hatchet is a great tool to have in the alloment garden as well. It is one of the oldest types of gardening tools. It is usually small and round with a cutting blade on one end and a hook on the other for attaching to the fence. Most hatchets are pointed, but some are designed with a point, claw or smooth edge. Some of the newer models include a spinner on the handle, making it easier to dig through large areas.

4. Edgers

Edgers have been used for years by gardeners. They may be used for trimming bushes, digging holes for potatoes and other items. Drills have been used for years on a farm as well. These tools may be powered by steam or by cord, depending on how the gardener wants to use it. For allotment purposes, a tiller is used.

5. Tools are Cost-effective

As the types of tools and equipment for allotment gardening are minimal, the cost associated with them is also minimal. This is especially true for tools such as the spade, which can be bought for as little as 5 pounds. For other equipment, such as forks, shovels, knives and other tools, you may need to spend a little more money but overall this is generally not expensive. One reason why the equipment costs so little is that you do not need to invest in any costly attachments for the equipment. There are no special watering devices or sprinklers to purchase, nor are there any expensive timers or alarms to set off. You are simply purchasing the actual tools themselves, and all you need to do is ensure they function properly, which requires little extra.

6. Considering the Type of Soil

Another factor to consider is the type of soil that you have in your garden. If you have clay soils then you are going to require different tools and equipment than if you have sandy soils. For most people the tools and equipment needed for a vegetable or fruit garden will be fairly similar no matter what type of soil you have in your area, however you do need to ensure you have the correct equipment for the type of soil in your area.

7. Maintenance of Equipment

One final consideration when buying equipment or tools is the type of maintenance that you require for the items. You can buy equipment that is durable and lasts for many years, but you may need to service the equipment occasionally. In this case, it makes sense to spend more on the tools and equipment to ensure that it will last as long as you need. It may also make sense to hire a few professional services to carry out the maintenance for you.

8. Availability of Space for Equipment

Consider carefully how much space you have available for storage before you start buying equipment and tools. Many gardeners find that their garden sheds become full very quickly, especially if they do not use the shed for gardening purposes. If you are not able to store the large variety of tools you will require, you will struggle to store the smaller tools required for a certain type of gardening. Also, be sure to consider how much room you have available in your garden shed for the tools and equipment. Having the correct tools and equipment makes all the difference in your garden.

9. Conclusion

When you are ready to purchase the equipment and tools you need, start by visiting your local garden shop or home improvement store. These types of shops will offer a lot of equipment and tools at discounted prices. However, you should still be aware that there may be sales, rebates and special offers going on at the time of purchase. Check out the savings that you can get by comparing prices between shops. It may take you a while to find everything that you need, but you will find everything you need at a fraction of the cost you would have paid in a conventional garden store.