Tool Time

Shovels
Round-point shovels are strictly for digging. The long-handled version works well for light-duty, standup digging, while its short-handled counterpart is better for deep digging. A flat-ended shovel doesn't work well for digging, but it's perfect for things like scooping compost and for cutting borders. Half-moon shovels or spades work well for keeping borders tidy and straight.

Rakes
A wider-than-usual grading rake with teeth that are made of nearly indestructible nylon is ideal for leveling newly prepared ground or for drawing down the length of raised beds.

Pitchforks are perfect for all sorts of things, but try to find one with square rather than flat tines. Square-tine versions are much stronger and can take a good deal of punishment. Use a pitchfork to loosen the subsoil in beds by simply driving it into the soil and gently rocking back and forth.

Also in this Episode

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-207
•	Edging Ideas
•	Sweet 'n Sour Soil
•	Tool Time
•	Annuals, Perennials