We researched dozens of the top gardening tools available online, evaluating effectiveness, ease of use, and overall value. Our top recommendations include the FELCO F 2 Hand Pruner, the Nisaku Hori-Hori Wedding Knife, and the Wilcox All-Pro Digging Trowel. Here are the best gardening tools. The Felco F-2 has hardened steel blades, a forged aluminum handle and an adjustable alignment. The rubberized handle has shock-absorbing pads to keep work comfortable, and reviewers say it does that effectively. Some recommend other Felco models for smaller hands—particularly the F-6—or those with joint problems, who will appreciate the rotating and ergonomic handles of the F-7 and F-8 pruners. Another favorite feature is a sap groove that helps prevent sticking. The pruner is backed by a lifetime warranty. Price at time of publish: $74 Users love the versatility of the Hori Hori, which they say is extraordinarily effective at uprooting even the toughest weeds. Its slightly concave shape also makes it useful for light planting, dividing flowers and transferring small plants, while others even use it as a hunting and fishing aid. Features include a vinyl plastic sheath with a belt loop, a sturdy wooden handle and measurements on the knife itself that help users track soil depth. Price at time of publish: $26 Experts with The Sweethome attribute the Wilcox trowel’s longevity to its single-piece steel construction, which leaves no joints to break or rust. But beyond being durable, it’s also very effective and can even be used in place of a soil knife, while retaining its skill at more digging-intensive jobs. Users agree, saying it’s sharp enough for effective digging. They also like the easy-to-grip handle and convenient leather wrist loop. Price at time of publish: $23 Users say the Bully 82515 stands up to even heavy-duty tasks like moving large boulders, removing stumps and digging deep trenches. The I-beam construction makes it especially sturdy, allowing users to put more pressure on the blade without fear of breakage. The shovel is just over 59 inches long, with a 48 1/2-inch reinforced fiberglass handle. Price at time of publish: $54 Users can measure both rain and snow with the Stratus RG202, which is made of a weather-resistant polycarbonate. Reviewers say it’s easy to get an accurate number with this well-designed gauge, which consists of a 1-inch inner measuring tube and an overflow cylinder that allows collection of up to 11 inches of rain. The gauge is roughly 5 by 5 by 14 inches and comes with a bracket that allows easy attachment and removal for users who install it on a post. Price at time of publish: $50 The Razor-Back Rake can be used to clean up leaves in the fall or to remove debris from your yard or garden. It boasts 24 steel tines connected to a special head that’s designed to keep the tines from coming loose. The rake’s flexible coil spring enables a smooth raking action, so you won’t be struggling as you clean up your yard, and the 9" cushioned grip will ensure your hands don’t cramp up. The Razor-Back Rake’s handle is 51" long, and it’s made of fiberglass, which is stronger than a standard wooden handle. If the impressive specs and reasonable price don’t convince you to buy this tool, just take a look at the rake’s glowing reviews. Users say the Razor-Back 24-Tine Steel Rake is more efficient and easy to use than similar products, and more than 95% of users recommend the product. Price at time of publish: $52 Their stylish yet comfortable design also features a knitted wrist, which helps prevent dirt from collecting inside the cuff of the gloves. They are also available in three different size options to help you find the perfect fit. At 1.92 ounces, these gloves are a great lightweight option to add to your tool shed.
Grip Comfort
If holding onto a tool isn’t comfortable, then you won’t be using it for long. Some handles are cushioned to provide more comfort and minimize blistering.
Effectiveness
For shovels and trowels, look for a sharp edge and consider how the handle is attached to the head. If the shovel has a metal sleeve that wraps around the handle, make sure it’s reinforced with a screw or rivet.
