Essential tools you need this autumn
Autumn is a crucial time for garden maintenance. As the days shorten and temperatures drop, your garden will need some TLC to ensure it is in ship shape for the spring season to come. To ensure your outdoor space is prepared for winter, having the right tools is essential. From raking leaves to pruning shrubs, British Garden Centres has put together this guide will equip you with the essential gardening tools to effortlessly navigate the autumn season.
Garden spades
Garden spades are the ultimate garden tool for digging large holes to plant autumnal bare-root plants, trees and hedging. Use your fork to also turn your soil in autumn to improve soil structure by breaking up compacted areas, enhance drainage, and help control weeds by exposing their seeds to frost. Spades are also perfect for creating crisp edges around flower beds, a task essential for maintaining an immaculate autumn garden. They're also ideal for lifting clumps of late-flowering perennials to divide and replant.
Hand trowels
Hand trowels are a gardener's best friend for planting spring bulbs, potting up autumnal cuttings, or transplanting small plants. They're also ideal for creating small planting holes for pansies, violas cyclamens and other seasonal blooms, which add vibrant colour to autumn gardens or baskets.
Garden forks
Garden forks are useful for harvesting root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, which often reach peak flavour in autumn. They can also be used to lift and divide perennials or carefully remove weeds without disturbing neighbouring plants. Forks are also essential to aerating lawns and creating drainage holes, a task particularly important in autumn to prepare the grass for winter.
Secateurs
Secateurs are ideal for pruning shrubs and roses after the flowering period has finished. This autumn maintenance encourages healthy growth and prevents diseases. They're also perfect for deadheading spent blooms, prolonging the flowering season of many plants.
Loppers
Loppers are crucial for cutting back overgrown shrubs and trees and preparing your garden for winter. They're also handy for clearing away deadwood, creating a tidier and safer outdoor space as the season winds down.
Garden shears
Garden shears are essential for maintaining the shape of hedges, a task that enhances the overall appearance of your garden, especially during the autumn months.
Rakes
Rakes are essential for gathering fallen leaves, preventing dampness and disease that can harm your lawn. Regular raking also helps to aerate the grass, promoting healthy growth. They can also be used to level seedbeds for overwintering green manure crops. They're also perfect for clearing away debris and preparing the soil for spring planting.
Patio weeders
Patio weeders are perfect for keeping paths and patios tidy, ensuring your outdoor living areas remain inviting throughout autumn. Regular weeding prevents weeds from establishing themselves and damaging paving.
Gardening gloves
Gloves are essential for autumn gardening as they protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and blisters caused by sharp tools or thorny plants. Additionally, they act as a barrier against dirt, bacteria, and chemicals that can be harmful to your skin. In the colder autumn months, gloves provide warmth and insulation, making gardening more comfortable.
