Choosing useful garden hand tools

Choose a tool for a job you actually do, rather than a shed you hope to fill.

Begin with your regular jobs

Make a short list of what you do most often: working with pots, tending a bed or caring for established plants. Compare tools intended for those tasks and check the manufacturer’s descriptions.

Think about fit and handling

Handle shape, tool length and weight can all affect how a tool feels to use. Read the dimensions and compare them with something you already find comfortable.

Check care and storage

Look for the supplied cleaning and maintenance instructions. Choose a practical place to store tools, and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for sharp or moving parts.

A smaller set can be a better start

One suitable tool may be more useful than a large collection of things you will rarely use. Add to your setup when a particular job gives you a reason.