Learn how to get started in agriculture with nine simple tools
We all know that it’s important to use the best tool for the job. However, for many new or inexperienced farmers, it can be overwhelming to know what tools you need and how to use them. Using the wrong equipment can be time-consuming and frustrating, but many people worry about investing their hard-earned money into kit that won’t benefit them. If you are unsure about what you need to start growing, read on to find our list of essential tools and their uses in small-scale farming.
Hoe
The hoe is a basic item that has a variety of important uses. Firstly, when preparing your soil for planting, you can sweep the hoe over the top of the soil to sever any weeds from their roots. When used in this way, the hoe is held like a broom and swept over the weeds. When done correctly, this can easily sever the weed’s vegetation from its roots. You can also use the hoe in more of a slicing motion for hardier weeds.
Hoes can also be used to create a seed drill; a narrow trench in which seeds are sown. The shape of the hoe allows for even, uniform rows of plants, which makes weeding your land with a hoe easier while your plants are growing. When you have planted the seeds, you can use the hoe to cover them with soil, preventing you from needing to bend.
Hoes are versatile, useful tools, but it is important to keep them sharp. Metal files and sharpening stones are great for this!
Cutlass
A cutlass is often used to quickly clear large amounts of thick or hardy vegetation. You can use this tool for harvesting larger crops or for breaking down weeds. With a flick of the wrist, this pointed tool can also be used the pierce the earth, allowing you to quickly make small holes for planting seeds.
Wheelbarrow
Nobody wants to carry large amounts of soil, crops, or tools around by hand, which is why a wheelbarrow is so useful. Even on small plots, the trusty wheelbarrow is a great companion, allowing you to easily transport soil, compost, mulch, and manure. They can also be used to move plants and seedlings without too much disruption, and they are ideal for filling with harvested produce that needs to be transported to storage or processing areas.
If you keep animals on your land, the humble wheelbarrow can be even more useful. From transporting feed to removing soiled bedding, its applications are varied. In a pinch, it can even be used to transport sick or injured animals.
Watering Can
If you don’t have a fancy irrigation system, the watering can is your best friend. Water is one of the most important elements of plant life, and you’ll find your seedlings don’t get very far without it! Watering cans are also useful for dispensing fertiliser and other water-soluble treatments, so you might find it useful to have an extra one (or two!) on hand to avoid cross-contamination.
Shovel
The shovel is a simple tool that has barely changed throughout its centuries of use. While some suppliers try to market expensive shovels with extra features, the fact is that a basic shovel is a thing of value. It can be used to dig, move loose materials (think soil, gravel, straw, sand, etc) and, depending on the straightness of its edge, create seed drills. The earliest example of shovel use dates to neolithic times, when the shoulder blade of a large animal was used for digging. These days, a typical shovel consists of a long wooden handle and a durable metal blade.
Sprayers
Fertilisers and pesticides are commonly used in agriculture, so a dependable applicator is essential. While electric versions are available, farmers who are just starting out will find immense value in a pressure sprayer, which is cheaper but still effective. Knapsack sprayers are especially useful for their portability – they come with straps and are carried on your back, leaving your hands free to get on with your work.
Fork
A fork is an essential piece of kit that is almost as versatile as the shovel. Forks are used for loosening and aerating soil, and their long, thin tines mean that they can penetrate deep into the earth without slicing through plant roots. Most forks can be used for loosening and turning soil, while pitchforks, which tend to have fewer, thinner tines, are perfect for moving bigger materials, like straw and hay.
Rake
Rakes are often used as a kind of outdoor broom. There is some variation in their size, shape, and usage, but their general purpose is to collect things like hay, dead leaves, and grass. Rakes with steel heads are sturdy and can be used for smoothing and grading large areas of soil. Depending on your own requirements, you may need more than one type of rake; for example, a leaf rake that conforms to the terrain and is a little flexible is ideal for collecting leaves and grass without disturbing the ground underneath, while a bow rake may be used to level the soil and gather up small rocks.
Pruning Shears
Pruning shears are – as the name suggests – are a type of scissor that is used for pruning unwanted vegetation from plants. These are ideal for stimulating new growth and removing dead or damaged parts of your plants. However, when working with sick plants, it is vital to avoid spreading the problem, so make sure you disinfect your shears between uses.
Hopefully, this list has given you some ideas on how to start your own journey into agriculture. As you get more familiar with your tools, you may even find your own uses for them that make your work easier. Remember that every farm – and every farmer – is unique. Experiment with your tools, work with them, look after them, and you will find that they treat you well over the years.
Megan Diehl is a dedicated writer who loves to explore the world of food and agriculture, sharing insights that connect people to the roots of their sustenance. When she isn't writing, Megan can usually be found cooking for her family, creating textile art and gardening.
