Have a lawn? You need to use the right tools!

1. Use the right tools for the right job By Burke Coltune

2. Knowing what tools to use and how to use them is key to properly care for your lawn. While there are many tools to use, there are a few essential tools that you will need. As a homeowner you will need to own a few basic lawn gardening tools. Some equipment can be rented locally from hardware stores and other equipment rental companies. Here are some useful hand gardening tools that help make your workload lighter:

3. Trowel: A scoop shaped pointed metal tool with a handle that is useful for breaking up earth, digging small holes and scooping. Inexpensive, they range from $1 to $25.

4. Hand Pruners: Comes in many shapes and sizes. A must have tool. Used to hand prune plants like small bushes, roses, and small branches. They range from $4 to $75.

5. Cultivator: This claw like tool is used for breaking up and aerating the soil and is also good for light weeding. Prices run from $1 to $50.

6. Tree Loppers: This tool is essential for removing and pruning those larger branches that hand pruners cannot cut through. They have longer handles for better leverage to cut taller shrubs and trees. Prices range from $6 to $180.

7. Watering Wand: This attachment for the water hose allows you to water the plants gently since the tool breaks up the water so it is softer on the plants and lessens erosion. It is also useful for reaching hanging baskets. Sold for as little as $4 and as much as $600.

8. Trench edger: Great tool to make those flowerbeds and sidewalks look clean. Since they can be expensive, you can get by renting it a few times a year. Costs range from $80 to $4,000.

9. String trimmer: A must-have tool to keep areas where the lawn meet the wall or sidewalks looking great. $80 to $300.

10. Leaf Rakes: Helps to collect leaves in a pile for removal. $4 - $178.

11. Leaf Blower: Greatly reduces the amount of time needed to get those pesky leaves collected. Prices range from $30 to well over $1,000

12. Choosing the right mower There are a few types of mowers on the market. Powered mowers greatly reduce the amount of time needed to cut the grass. Whether its hand powered or gas powered, a mower is a must. Here are the main types of mowers you can choose.

13. Reel Mower: Cuts grass using a revolving cylinder and is powered by pushing or motorized. Ideal for mowing, these green lawn mowers require little maintenance. The blades can be difficult to sharpen, professional services may be required. Green mowing at its best! Environmentally friendly, they can be fit with electric motor. The push types offer a great workout as well.

14. Rotary Mower: Cuts grass using flat horizontal blades mounted on the mower deck. Blade sharpening is rather easy with a rotary bench grinder and mill file. Keep in mind that if the blades are not sharp, it will rip the grass instead of cutting it. Can be environmentally friendly if fitted with an electric motor or biofuel motor. Tend to be more expensive than the reel mowers.

15. Ride on mower: These machines are available in many sizes and styles and have a selection of attachments and add-ons for convienence. They can be fitted with environmentally friendly engines and is best to own one if you have a larger yard. Typically more expensive than the other mowers, they require more maintenance since they have more moving parts.

16. Additional equipment you should own Eye and ear protection No spill gas can Protective clothing Sunscreen Hat Gloves