Yardsurfer » Gardening

Garden Tool Rack

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 01:44:13 +0000

Experienced gardeners keep a wide range of tools on hand and store them in a garden tool rack. Without a proper means of storing these tools, they can quickly build up and become cluttered. A garden shed can store all of these tools safely, but shelved storage can obscure items and make them difficult to find. Garden tool racks keep every tool out in the open where they can be seen and found quickly. The larger racks stand freely up against a wall or in a corner. Long handled tools are slid into various slots with their working ends in the air. Other racks mount to the wall with a set of screws. Although smaller, wall mounted racks can make use of space that would otherwise not be used.

Floor Garden Tool Rack

Floor racks are the ultimate storage solution for garden tools. These models sit on the floor, usually in a corner or up against a wall. Most models use two levels of molded plastic connected with metal or plastic poles. Long handles tools can be slid through the top holes to keep them in place. The working ends of the tools stick up in the air so users can quickly find the tool they need. Smaller items can be hung on small notches on the edges of the top shelf. Things like extension cords and gloves can be set on the bottom or top shelf. Corner units have sides which come together at 90 degrees, allowing them to slide right into a corner to maximize storage space. Using these racks in areas like basements or garages will extend their lifespan, but the plastic is durable enough to remain outdoors without cracking, rottign or chipping.

Some garden tool racks, such as the 5E28 model from Rubbermaid, feature wheel casters on the bottom which give them the ability to roll around on smooth surfaces. Users can roll them out of the garage or storage shed during use and roll them back in for safe storage afterward.

Wall Racks

A wall mounted garden tool storage rack can make use of previously unused space. These racks use features like S-hooks, spring loaded clamps and wire racks baskets to organize and store many kinds of tools. Even big tools like rakes and brooms can be hung on many of these models. Others are designed to hold small items like gloves, water spray heads and bottles of weed killer. Small hooks can accommodate hand tools with hanger rings.

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Beautify the Garden with a Decorative Trellis

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:29:07 +0000

The tools a gardener uses to care for their plants are usually decorative, blending in with the surroundings flawlessly. When vine plants need a sturdy place to climb, a decorative trellis is the perfect tool for the job. Not only do these trellises provide a sturdy mount for vine plants, they look great too. The ones made of metal have beautiful arching curves with garden themed accents like stamped leaves and birds. Wooden ones are less elaborate but show off the beauty of natural wood in the garden. Many styles are available, including flat, semi round and fan shaped. They are easy to install by simply pressing them into the ground near the plant.

Shapes

A decorative trellis can come in one of many shapes. All are effective at holding up vines, so selecting a shape depends on personal preference. The classical flat shape is a popular one because it can fit up against flat walls without taking up much space. Vines can be lined up against the wall and receive full coverage along its length.

For lone plants, a full circle trellis may be better. These free standing trellises can be placed basically anywhere because they do not need a wall for support. Vines grow in the center of the circle and fill up the interior. A semi-round decorative garden trellis consists of only half a circle, giving them the ability to sit against a wall on their flat side.

Three-panel trellises are free standing structures which consist of three panels connected at hinges. The panels can be turned and rotated as needed to get just the right shape. These three-dimensional trellises add depth and dimension to any garden.

Also popular is the tree/ odd shaped decorative trellis which don’t really have any defined shape. Often in the form of a tree or plant, these trellises have “twigs” jutting out in random directions.

Decorative Metal Trellis

Metal trellises have a decorative appeal because the metal wire used in their construction can be twisted and turned in decorative patterns. Unlike trellises made of wood, curves and circular patterns can be created in metal trellises. Metal can be stamped into various shaped like birds and leaves which are welded onto the frame. The metal is coated with protective paint, often in the color black, which keeps the trellis from rusting. Users press the legs into the ground for firm placement.

Decorative Wooden Trellis

While wood cannot be bent or twisted into decorative shapes, it is still a beautiful and natural material which makes for a great trellis. Wood trellises stick with simple grid patterns which provide a good gripping surface for plants. Various species of woods can be selected and stained to a chosen color. The wood will slowly degrade outdoors and may need an occasional re-sanding and staining. Sealer can be applied for maximum longevity.

Garden Tool Storage Organizers

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 06:32:16 +0000

When avid gardeners acquire a large amount of tools, they use a garden tool storage organizer to keep them in place. There are many types of garden storage products on the market, each of which is suites to a different need. For example, garden totes keep a small surplus of hand selected tools in a lightweight bag which can be carried around the garden. Tool racks and carts are rolling organizers which have wheels on the bottom for easy transport. These handy devices keep all of your tools organized and ready for action. Portable organizers like totes and trolleys can stay at your side for the duration of the job, preventing frequent trips to and from the garden shed.

Garden Trolleys and Carts

Gardening carts are built to hold and organize a large amount of garden tools while still remaining portable. Large diameter wheels with rubber tread allow for smooth rolling over even the roughest terrain. The two-wheeled models often feature a large front-loading bucket which can be filled and dumped just like a wheel barrow. These models have less room for tool storage, but leave a few slots near the handle bars at the front.

Four-wheeled carts are more suited for large amounts of tool storage. Both long and short handles tools can be placed within the various garden tool storage slots. Interchangeable shelves are often incorporated onto these models to hold large items like unfilled pots and bags of soil. Some carts have a working surface on the top with a soil sifting bin to remove large clumps of soil before use.

Smaller carts, often called trolleys, sit lower to the ground and are designed for sitting. Users sit on the top of the trolley while they work close to the ground, adding comfort to the experience. Tools and other accessories are kept in the compartment under the seat. Some models have a slot where a 5 gallon bucket can be attached, acting as a garden tools storage bin.

Aprons

Garden aprons are for both women and men, and can hold a small amount of gardening tools on the built in pouches. Heavy duty fabric is used to create these aprons which are work around the front of the body. The smaller pockets are used to slide small hand tools inside, while the larger pockets can hold things like sunglasses and work gloves. Gardening aprons are ideal for people who like to move around the garden without obstruction.

Tool Caddy

A tool caddy is simply a small bag with various tool slots and a large central pocket. Users slide their hand tools into the slots on the exterior. Larger items are placed into the central pocket which functions just like a purse. Dual handles allow for easy transport around the garden.

Work Comfortably with a Garden Potting Bench

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:19:20 +0000

When gardeners need an extra hand around the garden, they turn to a product called a garden potting bench. Although called a bench, they are actually tables which act as a raised working platform for gardening tasks. Filling pots, mixing soil and other tasks can all be completed while standing or sitting comfortably. Gone are the days when a person needed to bend and stoop for every little task, dirtying their clothes and causing pain in the joints. While not every task can be done on a potting bench, many things can. They are most commonly made of cedar, a type of beautiful hardwood which blends in well to garden environments. comfortably

Design of a Garden Potting Bench

What sets these pieces apart from a regular table is the unique design intended just for gardeners. A raised working surface provides ample room to work, while several storage shelves keep everything you need close by. Underneath the main surface is a deep platform which can hold items both large and small. Stacks of pots and bags of soil can be kept on this sturdy shelf until needed. Just over the table surface is a smaller shelf which acts like a hutch-style storage shelf. This shelf can support smaller pots, tools and accessories.

Some of the more advanced models have tool hooks which keep small hand tools organized and safe. Any type of hand tool which has a storage loop can be placed on these tool hooks. When up off the ground, your metal tools will be less likely to come in contact with water which can create rust.

Storage drawers, usually kept underneath the table surface, are great for keeping the smallest of items contained. Things like seed packets and work gloves are kept safe and organized within the confines of these drawers.

Available on some benches are folding table leaves. These leaves are basically extensions of the main working surface and create more room to work. They can be folded down for storage when not needed.

Wood Construction

Wood is used in garden potting benches because it looks great and it quite strong. Cedar, the most common wood used in potting benches, is weather resistant and can withstand impacts from tools. Users don’t have to worry about damage from water or dirt, although regular cleaning is recommended for a prolonged life.

These benches ship unassembled and must be built on arrival. The wood pieces come together with steel hardware that requires a few basic tools to create the finished product.

These benches are sturdy enough to be placed out in the open, although most people place them up against their house or shed. Wheeled models are much easier to move around as needed.

Gardening with Potting Benches

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 23:18:16 +0000

Potting benches consist of a raised platform from which a variety of gardening tasks can take place. Many of the tasks that require painful bending and kneeling can be completed on one of these benches. Transplanting, mixing soil, preparing pots and more can be done comfortably while standing up or sitting in a chair. One large shelf underneath the work surface provides storage space for large items like pots and soil bags. A hutch style shelf above the work table can be used for small pots, gardening tools and more. A potting bench is a welcome addition to gardens of all types and stages.

Design of a Potting Bench

Despite being called a garden potting bench, these pieces are actually a sort of table with multiple storage shelves. The raised working surface is perhaps the most important part of this bench, as it provides a sturdy and flat place for gardeners to work. Things typically done on the ground can be transported to the work surface and done there. The best part is that you can keep everything you need to complete a job close at hand. A large storage shelf under the table is used to keep heavy items close by. This includes large terra cotta pots, bags of soil or compost, and large garden tools. Just above the work table is a hutch-style shelf that keeps small items within reach. Hand tools, smaller pots, packages of fertilizer stakes and more can be organized right in front of you.

Tool Accomodations

Tools are a gardener’s best friend. Nobody likes to make several trips from the tool shed to the work site, which is why potting benches have many accommodations for tools. Tool racks and hooks are a common sight on a potting bench. Tool hooks can be used to hand small hand tools with hanging loops on the handles. Creative gardeners can place a garden tool caddy on one of the shelves or hang it over the side for extra storage.

Cedar Potting Bench

Cedar is the wood of choice in these benches for several reasons. A natural cedar potting bench simply looks classy. Cedar blends in well with garden environments, unlike industrial products made from metal. Cedar is a hard wood that is very strong, allowing users to place dozens or even hundreds of pounds of product on their benches. And finally, cedar is resistant to rot and decay caused by bugs and moisture. Users can safely spill dirt and water on the bench and expect easy cleanup afterward.

Extra Features

Extra feature are always a bonus, and potting benches do not disappoint. Some models have a special mixing bucket built into the table that can be used to prepare soil before use. Plant feed, sand, soil and compost can be mized to the proper ratios before pouring the into the bucket.

A side-mounted drop leaf can instantly increase the amount of table space of the bench. These leaves fold up or down in seconds and lock firmly into place.

Drawers are essential if you have small items which could roll around or fall through the cracks of the table. Things like gloves, plant markers and sunglasses can be kept withing the drawers so they do not get lost or damaged.

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Garden Tool Organizer Variations

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 00:46:09 +0000

The best way to store a collection of gardening tools is to use a garden tool organizer. As gardeners gain a collection of tools, they can be difficult to manage. Storing them in a tool shed keeps them safe, but requires multiple trips from the garden and shed to access them. To keep the tools right by their side, gardeners can use a tool organizer. Simply fill up the organizer once at the start of the day, and your tools stay by your side until the job is done. These organizers come in different forms. Choosing the right one depends strongly on what type of help you need and what kinds of jobs you do. This guide discusses several different types of garden tool organizers.

Garden Tool Caddy

Garden caddies are basically a fabric bag with tool slots on the sides. These bags are made from water and rot resistant fabric such as polyester or vinyl. On the outside of the bag is a series of slots in which small hand tools can be placed. Hand tools are placed handle side down so the gardener can see exactly where their tools are. The main chamber of the caddy can be used for storing items such as gloves, seed packets, and even live plants to be transplanted. The tool set can be changed out as needed to accommodate different jobs around the garden. Two handles allow for easy carrying of the caddy even when full.

Bucket caddies, such as the one made by Fiskars, are slightly different in design. These caddies wrap around a standard five-gallon bucket. The tool slots are still available, but the central container is a waterproof bucket instead of fabric. This large bucket can be used to store messy items like soil, rocks and dead plant material.

Garden Trolleys and Seats

Pain caused by sitting and kneeling on bare ground is a common problem for gardeners. Gardey trolleys solve this problem by providing a comfortable seat for gardeners to sit on while working. These seats are low to the ground, allowing for jobs like plowing and seeding to be done without over reaching. Garden trolleys are equipped with wheels that allow them to roll around while sitting. Tools are kept in a storage compartment under the seat.

Gardening seats do not have wheels but are quite portable and lightweight. Many of these seats can fold up for easy storage and have tool compartments on the side. Some can even convert between a kneeler and a seat. A garden kneeler is simply a piece of foam which gardeners rest their knees on while working.

Aprons

Gardening aprons are popular among men and women alike. These aprons have a garden tools organizer on the front which holds a variety of hand tools. The weight of the tools is evenly distributed over the shoulders for a comfortable experience. They have the dual purpose of keeping a gardener’s clothes clean at the same time.

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Preparing Pots on a Potting Bench

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 01:38:22 +0000

Gardening on your hands and knees can be uncomfortable. A potting bench provides gardeners with a raised work surface from where they can prepare pots and soil in comfort. Potting benches are designed specifically for gardening jobs. On the durable work table, users can fill pots with soil, prune their potted plants, add fertilizer and more. Special features like a soil mixing bucket, storage drawer and tool hangers allow the potting bench to adapt to a variety of jobs. These benches usually have a large storage shelf on the underside which holds pots and other supplies until they are needed. Cedar is typically the material of choice when making these benches, as it very hard and resists rot.

Comfort While Gardening

A true gardener would tell you that getting your hands dirty is the most natural way to enjoy gardening. However, sitting or kneeling on the ground can be painful and uncomfortable for some people. Potting benches allow gardeners to work on jobs while standing up or sitting in a chair. This is far more comfortable than working on the ground. A variety of tasks can be completed on a potting bench, including transplanting, soil mixing, trimming and seeding. Pots are kept on the bottom storage shelf for quick access. Users can grab a bag of soil on the shelf and immediately get to work.

Some models have special storage feature to keep your tools close at hand. Tool hooks can hold small hand tools such as pruners and shovels. Storage drawers keep sensitive items like sunglasses and garden gloves out of the sun and dirt.

Soil Bin

Advanced gardeners mix their soils before putting them into pots. Some potting benches have soil basins where the mixing can take place. Soil, dirt and plant feed can be mixed in the proper ratios before being placed into the pot. One bench from the company Eclipse Cedar Creations has a soil bin recessed into the table top with a lid. When the lid is closed, the entire table surface becomes available.

Design

The design of a garden potting bench can vary among manufacturers but the concept remains the same. Four sturdy legs hold up a large work surface and at least one storage shelf. If storage drawers are present, they are usually installed just under the main table. Soil mixing buckets are either installed into the table or mounted on the side. Storage hooks on the front or sides keep tools right at your side.

Cedar is chosen in many cases because it is resistant to rot and is very strong. Since water is present in gardening conditions, a water resistant material is a must. Cedar is not only strong but has a great natural garden look. Surfaces should be wiped down after use to prevent staining.

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Outdoor Plant Stands

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:37:57 +0000

When your garden becomes full with countless plants, an outdoor plant stand can help give you much needed extra room. Plant stands are specifically designed to hole one or more plant pots up off the ground. Plants are first placed within a pot and then placed on the stand. Some models are capable of holding more than one pot and are often referred to as “tiered” stands. Plant stands are highly decorative, accentuating any garden with beautiful curves and designs. Most often made from coated metal, these sturdy stands are safe to use both indoors and out. Some minor assembly may be required, but usually involved simply hand tightening the frame together. Plant stands come in various forms, each of which are best suited for different areas of the garden. corner units fit snugly into any corner, while flat, rectangular units are best placed up against a wall. Some can even stick into the ground right in your garden bed.

Design and Functionality

Outdoor plant stands have become part of garden culture because they same space and look great. Space is often a big issue with gardeners, as some people like apartment dwellers only have a small balcony to work with. When the garden becomes full, one or more plant stands can dramatically increase space. The “tiered” versions have more than one plant shelf stacked on top of one another. Similar to a bookshelf in your home, the tiered models store multiple plant pots while taking up very little precious ground space. Corner units have two sides that come together forming a 90 degree angle. They can slide right into a corner with ease, utilizing space that would typically be inaccessible. Outdoor plant stands have different types of shelves, too. Some stands have circular shaped shelves that can only store one pot at a time. Others have longer, more conventional style shelves which can store many pots or a single trough. The circular shaped varieties are often more decorative in style.

Advantages of Keeping Plants off the Ground:

Besides saving space, plant stands have another distinct advantage to gardeners. Plants grown in ground soil have to be constantly monitored for water levels, pest infestation and runoff chemicals which can damage or kill them. When put in a stand, bugs and chemicals cannot reach them. Also, users do not have to bend down into awkward positions to tend their crops. Water levels can be closely monitored, keeping plants in optimal health. In the event that the weather changes unexpectedly, the stands can be moved under the protection of a patio awning- a luxury that in-ground plants do not have. Potted plants can be automatically watered using a watering bulb like the one from Plant Nanny.

In-ground Stands

While most plant stands stand freely on any hard surface, some varieties have pole-like legs that can be pressed into soft ground. These stands can be placed in locations within the garden to complement their surroundings and increase functionality. The decorative, earthy tones of these stands blend in well with gardens of all styles.

Foldable Screen Stands

Another style that has style and function are plant screen stands. These models consist of a series of sections that are connected together with hinges, allowing them to rotate and change shape. Users can use these stands as a screen or wall, defining boundaries in the garden. Each section has a shelf on the top at a varying height. A retainer wall around each shelf keeps pots from falling out during adjustment. The ability to change the shape of the stand allows gardeners to express their creativity in an unexpected way.

Garden Trolley Guide

Sat, 22 May 2010 22:37:37 +0000

Avid gardeners often have many tools at their disposal, ranging from protective gloves to garden plows. These tools may be exceptionally helpful but can be a real hassle to transport around the yard as you work. Instead of traveling back and forth between the garden shed and the yard consider using a garden trolley to transport everything you need with ease. These carts are designed to hold everything you need to garden. Tools, seeds, soil and more can be loaded up once and then rolled around to different parts of the yard. Some models include comfort features like a built-in seat or umbrella shade. They have slots and shelves to secure everything into place. Two to four wheels allow these carts to be rolled over both smooth and rough terrain. This guide covers the essential features of garden trolleys.

Soil Bin

Models that feature a soil bin allow users to mix soil right on the trolley. Instead of hauling around a bucket or wheelbarrow, gardeners can mix soil, compost and fertilizer to the proper ratios with the bin built into the cart. Some models, such as the one from Suncast, have a sifter grate that keeps large chunks of dirt from entering the bin while mixing.

Shelves

Multiple shelves allow users to place essential items like pots and garden shears in an easy-to-reach space. Some models have removable shelves which allow users to change the height of the interior space, making room for taller objects if needed.

Tool Rack

Even large tools like rakes and brooms can be stores on many of these carts. Tool holes on the top of the cart allow users to slide long-handles tools into them, keeping them upright and within reach. Anything from a spray handle to a garden how can be safely secured within these tool racks.

Highly Rated Models:

Here are some examples of a few highly rates garden trolleys on the market.

Suncast Garden Trolley Cart

Suncast has crafted an all-in-one gardening solution in the form of a rolling trolley. A 4 inch deep bin on the top surface allows users to mix up soil on the spot. A vented shelf covers the bin and can be used for pots or storage. The bottom area has two interchangeable shelves. A deep bucket shelf holds small items that can easily roll around. The flat shelf can be used to store pots and troughs for planting. Both shelves can be interchanged or removed completely to suit your needs. One side of the garden trolley has s series of tool holes that can be used to store tools with long handles. Rakes, hoes, brooms and more easily fit within the holes and are held in position until needed. Two textured wheels allow the unit to glide over even the roughest terrain. The trolley is made from durable resin and requires no tools to assemble. If you become a Suncast fan, you can store your trolley in a Suncast garden shed to keep it safe.

Fiskars Garden Trolley

Fiskars has developed a smaller garden trolley designed to also function as a seat. Gardeners often have to bend down in uncomfortable positions to tend plants. The Fiskars trolley has a built in seat that is made out of soft foam. The seat pad can be removed and used as a garden kneeler. Underneath the seat is a storage compartment with a smaller storage caddy. This area can hold an assortment of hand tools. At the rear of the unit is an area where users can place a five gallon bucket (not included). A strap hols the bucket in place, acting as an additional storage compartment for soil or more tools. Users pull the garden trolley along using the nylon strap. While not as big as a full sized garden trolley cart, it is exceptionally convenient and comfortable to use.

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Back Saving Hanging Flower Baskets

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 05:38:42 +0000

Have you ever considered growing your own flowers at home? You probably have your favorite flower that you would love to have flourish in your own backyard. Perhaps you have a love for all flowers and want a wide variety of colors to permeate your lawn. I have found that the easiest way to start growing flowers is to use flower planters. Specifically, I like to use hanging flower baskets because they keep your flowers off of the ground. These planters are easy to hang on your patio or awning and display your creations with prominence. Unlike a typical garden, a pot collection prevents you from digging trenches and tilling soil. By using a pot you get to control exactly what goes inside.

To get started, you first need to go out and get some flower pots. There are several types available, including basket style, multi-potted styles and standard styles. Each of these hanging pots can accommodate different amounts of flowers. It’s also a matter of personal taste. The best suggestion I can give is to start out small and work your way up. Try out a standard flower planter and try growing a few seeds. Choose a place to hang the pot where sunlight is indirect. Too much light will dry out the soil faster than you can water it. Seeds must be kept moist until they have germinated. The beauty of hanging flower planters is that you can move it from hook to hook as needed.

The cleanliness of these baskets makes them ideal for growing plants indoors. Many plants thrive well near a window in a hanging basket. For this reason, some indoor gardeners like to beautify and purify indoors as well using a variety of air freshening plants.

Soil is an important factor to consider in hanging flower baskets. Flowers do best with a specific balance of nutrients. To make this simple you can purchase flower soil at your gardening store. Fill the pot about three quarters of the way up, making sure to spread it evenly with your hands. Do this with the pot on the ground, not while hanging. Moisten the soil before distributing the seeds at the depth and spacing that the package recommends. Hang your planter on your hook and keep them watered. As the seeds grow you may notice that they become overcrowded. Fertilize the plant or flower pot several times a year as needed to provide nutrients to the soil. If you are worries about the pots falling and breaking, try using plastic flower pots which are crack-proof. And finally, have fun!