Essential Tools for a Well Maintained Lawn

January 20, 2009 by Charlene Sim  
Filed under Landscaping

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Less than 200 years ago, grass was trimmed using a scythe. And that was only if anyone even bothered to cut it. Lawn care has come a long way since then. 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. This piece of equipment will probably be the most costly thing you buy in order to maintain your lawn. However, if you maintain it well, it should last you for many years to come.

But you need more than just a lawnmower in order to make your landscape immaculate. A lawn trimmer is required for those awkward spaces. One option is the standard clippers that resemble oversized scissors, which are also used as hedge trimmers. Or you can purchase an electric trimmer which utilizes a piece of plastic string to mow down stray clumps of grass. This string rotates at an extremely high speed. It’s not only strong enough to cut grass, it can also injure your body, so use caution.

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.

A rake is essential for gathering up the fallen leaves in the autumn. If you don’t rake them, these leaves might cause damage over the winter. In the springtime, as the snow starts to melt, your grass will be suffocated and dehydrated by this covering of 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. Larger square or rounded shovels will also be required if you’re digging up plants, moving around soil and for any number of other jobs.

Purchase the highest quality equipment you can and take good care of it. This will make your lawn care much more enjoyable. And you’re certain to make all the neighbors jealous.

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