A couple of centuries ago, the only way to cut grass was with a scythe. And that was only if anyone even bothered to cut it. Landscaping has progressed considerably since that time. When it comes to proper maintenance of your patch of grass, there is a huge assortment of lawn and garden tools that will make the job so much easier.

A lawnmower is simply essential if grass is a component of your landscaping. It’s a strange concept that your lawn has to be ruthlessly chopped off in order to thrive; nevertheless, that’s the way it is. A lawnmower will likely be your most expensive purchase when it comes to lawn care. 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. You might choose to use the traditional hand operated model that looks like a giant pair of scissors. Or you can purchase an electric trimmer which utilizes a piece of plastic string to mow down stray clumps of grass. The string spins at ultra high speeds and is very powerful, so be careful when using it.

A spreader is also an invaluable tool to have around. These will help you to evenly distribute things like grass seed, weed killer and fertilizer that will keep your lawn looking its best. You can purchase a spreader in a push style with small holes and a mechanism that releases the contents as you go. 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. They’re more suitable for applying products to small areas.

You’ll also need a rake in order to scoop up all the leaves on the ground in the fall. If left untouched, the leaves will almost certainly do harm to your lawn during the winter months. In the springtime, as the snow starts to melt, your grass will be suffocated and dehydrated by this covering of leaves.

You will discover that even though you carefully raked your leaves last fall, the grass has still become compressed throughout the winter. This thatching effect will prevent oxygen and other essential nutrients from working their way into the soil. Reviving the thatched grass is yet another task for your rake.

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. For moving soil and digging plants, you’ll need a good sized square or rounded shovel. Actually, you’ll find this tool useful for a wide variety of backyard activities.

Buy the best equipment you can afford and maintain it well. Tending to your lawn will be considerably more pleasurable. You’ll also be the envy of your neighbors.