NEW GARDENER Buy/Share/Rent LIST OF ESSENTIAL TOOLS & MATERIALS
* starred items are the ONLY essential tools you need to get started!
* Shovel
Trowel (hand shovel)
Rakes (flexible vs. “fixed” tines)
Buckets (1-5 gallon)
Gloves (pref. lightweight leather)
Plastic tarp
Wheelbarrow or garden cart
Row cover (for frost or insect protection)
Stakes (can be bamboo, rebar, or other sturdy sticks)
Trellis material (plastic, string, or wire mesh)
Tomato cages (can use stakes but can often be found for free)
String or twine
Hose and/or *watering can (or even use a 1-gal. water jug)
* Compost (bought or homemade/scavenged materials, see below)
All-purpose fertilizer
WHERE DO YOU FIND INEXPENSIVE TOOLS & MATERIALS? Add your suggestions in the comments, below!
Goodwill/VOA/large thrift shops for repurposed kitchen/garden tools
Collect dry tree leaves, esp. oak, maple, beech, etc. and shred with mower or by hand
Use the stems of tall ornamental grass (dead and dry in spring) as a substitute for straw mulch (see photos)
Some townships may offer free/discounted biosolid compost - good for ornamental plants, NOT edibles
Horse stables or friends with chickens or rabbits for manure/compost (you may have to let it “age” a few months before use)
GARAGE SALES - especially in older and/or wealthier neighborhoods
FB Marketplace/Craigslist/Freecycle - can set up alerts or search on items
FB neighborhood gardening groups - tools, materials, plants
OFFER to split costs with others
ASK if folks want to make space in their garage/sheds by helping them unload materials
OFFER to return produce, flowers, etc. in exchange for tools & materials
