Ultimate Guide To the Best Gardening Tool Sets For Beginners
This post is all about the best gardening tool sets.
If you find the best gardening tool set for you, then you can have a thriving garden and a relaxing hobby.
But on the flipside, the wrong gardening tool set can leave you with blisters, splinters, and the frustration of a tool set that breaks after it hits a hidden rock in your soil.
I have tried my fair share of gardening tool sets, and my favorite is this one by Grenebo, but my hope is that by the end of this quick guide, you can find a garden tool set that works best for your needs!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.
What to Look for in a Good Gardening Tool Set
Not every gardening tool set is the same, and everyone has different needs.
Consider these variables while shopping for your backyard gardening tools:
- Material quality and durability (stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, wood, and thick plastic are great options!)
- Your personal comfort features (ergonomic grips, lightweight design, kid-sized gardening tools, etc.)
- Number of tools included (Do you need a full set of tools, or are you simply adding to your gardening tool set collection?) If you’re a true gardening beginner, you probably don’t need a ton!
- What are the best tools for specific tasks? I share a list of different tool names and uses later on in the post for you to learn more!
- Portability and organization features. Some of the tool sets on this list come with a handy carrying bag, but you may not need that. Some tools have a hole or loop on the end to hang them in your garage/garden shed. Your needs may be different if you’re a backyard gardener or bringing your tools to a local community garden.
Best Gardening Tool Sets
Grenebo Tool Set
I love that this gardening tool set is the perfect blend of offering you the tools you need to get started with gardening, but it isn’t overwhelming to the point of having a bunch of random tools that you don’t know how to use (or may never need to use!). If you have a vegetable garden or a flower box on your front porch, you want to maintain, this tool set will be perfect for you.
All of the materials used in this product are 10 out of 10. You really can’t go wrong with stainless steel, metal, and thick canvas. A small detail about this canvas tote I really love is the bands that keep your tools secure in the pockets! This will keep them snug and organized.
{RECOMMENDED POST: 10 Must Know Gardening Safety Tips For Beginner Gardeners}
Vremi 9-Piece Garden Tool Set with Tote Bag
Personally, I think these gardening tools win for their ergonomic design. When you’ve been out in your garden beds for a few hours, your hands may start to tire, but this tool design can help lessen that. They have a rubber grip which is a bit softer than wood, and it helps them to be nonslip!
The tool storage tote is a bit larger with this tool set, so you have more space to throw in your water bottle, or if you end up wanting to expand on your gardening tool collection later on!
Lastly, if you’re not careful, your gardening tools can grow legs and walk away, never to be seen again. Kidding, but I do love that these gardening tools are black so they will stick out. Hopefully, this will minimize the likelihood that your tools are left behind when you are done gardening for the day!
Garden tools set with a carrying case
My absolute favorite part about this gardening tool set is the carrying box that it comes in!
It kind of mimics a toolbox you would use for screwdrivers and things, and this design is popular for a reason. Every tool has a designated space, and I LOVE that this design keeps your tools safe from the elements. If you want to leave this toolbox out in your garage or your garden tool shed, you can have peace of mind that it’s protected from humidity (aka rust- more on this later)!
I also love that this gardening tool kit has the classic and most used gardening tools, but also some mini gardening tools! There are all different types of gardeners, and caring for your house plants or succulents is a type of gardening too! Get the best of both worlds and take care of all of your plant babies with this gardening tool kit that features smaller tools for more intricate gardening.
The fun color and patterns don’t hurt either (;
Fiskars flower gardening tool set
If you are brand spanking new to gardening and want a tool kit that has the basics, this tool set would be my top recommendation.
I try to avoid plastic like the plague, but there are moments when it can be really useful! The plastic used in this gardening tool set is super thick; therefore, they won’t snap on impact of a rogue rock or when you’re juggling plants and tools, and one slips.
Also, most experienced gardeners will tell you to protect your joints! This hobby can be relaxing and fun, but it can also hurt your back, knees, and hands if you don’t take precautions. I absolutely LOVE that this gardening tool set comes with a knee pad and protective gloves.
{RECOMMENDED POST: 11 Practical Tips For How to Organize Seeds The Right Way
Best kids’ gardening tool set
Childrens Gardening Set
I was on the fence deciding between including a plastic kids’ gardening tool set or a metal one.
Of course, it’s up to you, but I decided to highlight this metal gardening tool set for a few reasons. Gardening offers so many wonderful lessons to kids. From growing their own food, to practicing patience, and even learning how to safely use items for their intended use. We can’t shield them from everything, so teaching them how to use tools the right way (with parental supervision) is a great benefit to this toolkit.
I love that this tool set works well with younger kids’ capabilities. The two scoop-like tools in this set are perfect for little ones who may not have the hand-eye coordination for a flatter shovel! These kinds of design features may seem small, but they help to build confidence in your little gardener when they can comfortably participate in the tasks you’re doing!
If you have been wanting your kids to make the most of your backyard and the outdoors, check out this blog post all about tips on creating a natural playground in your backyard (mini gardens included!)
Best gardening tool bag
Not all of the gardening tool sets on this list come with a gardening tool bag. If you garden at home, you may not really need a gardening tool bag, but if you are heading to your local community garden, it could be helpful to have a durable tool bag to keep your gardening tools organized and protected.
I love that this gardening tool bag has a couple of different carrying options. It has a normal loop for carrying it with your hand and a larger loop to throw over your shoulder after a long day of hard work in the garden.
This can also be helpful if you are carrying around bags of soil, seeds etc., and need your hands free. The bands on the outside are another great feature to keep them secure, yet easily accessible.
Best ergonomic gardening tools for seniors
These are by far my top recommendations as the best gardening tools for seniors! There are plenty of grooves in each tool that make gripping these tools way easier than simple wooden tools.
The rubber handles are softer than other materials as well, which can help reduce hand fatigue.
Lastly, they come with a tool bag which is helpful for anyone, seniors included!
Best gardening tool brands
If the gardening tool sets on this list aren’t exactly what you’re looking for, here are some of the most popular and best gardening tool brands you can also check out!:
- Fiskars
- Corona
- DeWit
- Black and Decker (Great for landscaping!)
- Felco
Gardening Tool Maintenance & Care Tips
Now that you have picked out your favorite gardening tool set and put it to good use, you may be wondering, what is the best way to clean gardening tools?
Rust, mold, and tools that snap from improper maintenance are the main things you want to avoid.
Ideally, you can buy your gardening tools once and they can last for years! Here are some important gardening tool maintenance tips to consider:
How to Clean Gardening Tools After Use
Keeping gardening tools clean after each use is so important to maximise their longevity and to stop the spread of plant diseases.
Once you’re done for the day, make sure to knock off the excess dirt and debris. You can even use a stiff brush if needed. To get the sticky stuff off, simply use a cloth and soapy water. A diluted vinegar mixture is another one of my go-to DIY cleaning solutions as well!
Lastly, it is SO essential that the tools are completely dry before storing them to prevent rust.
{RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Free Printable Seed Packet Template}
Managing rust on gardening tools
Gotta love the durability of metal, but the reality is that it rusts. To clean rust that occurs, use some good ol WD-40 to clean off the metal parts of your tools.
WD-40 acts as a slight lubricant as well to create a protective barrier against moisture. Humidity happens, though, and rust is sort of inevitable, but you don’t want to have it get into your garden beds.
Proper gardening tools storage techniques
Once your tools are clean, be sure to store them properly so that they stay in mint condition.
Always keep your gardening tools in a cool, dry, and sheltered place. These spots are popular for a reason when it comes to storing tools: Garden tool shed, garage, toolbox, garden bench, or a storage box with a lid.
During the winter (or your off season), you can wrap your tools in cloth and store them in your attic.
A little bit of sunlight, air, or moisture won’t destroy your gardening tools, but if you want to lengthen their longevity, going the extra mile to store them properly can add up!
Sharpening Blades for Pruners and Shears
Sharper tools mean cleaner cuts, better efficiency, and reduced strain on your hands.
At the start and end of the growing season, be sure to sharpen your tools (not the plastic ones of course).
I like this little gadget, but use whatever you are comfortable with! And ALWAYS remember to wear safety goggles when sharpening your gardening tools. I prefer these over safety glasses because there are no open areas where random things can fly in and get to your eyes.
Gardening tool names & uses
When you are ready to expand on your gardening tool set, here is a checklist for the most common gardening tools!
My advice is to use what you have and then build on your collection as your garden grows.
Common gardening tools
- Hand trowel: helpful for digging small holes, transplanting seedlings, and weeding in tight spaces.
- Pruners (hand shears): perfect for trimming stems and deadheading flowers.
- Loppers: have long handles for extra leverage when cutting thicker branches that pruners can’t handle.
- Garden hoe: useful for breaking up soil, removing weeds, and creating rows in vegetable beds.
- Garden fork: great for turning, loosening, and aerating compact soil.
- Spade: makes digging, edging, and moving soil or compost more efficient.
- Rakes: leveling soil, gathering debris, and managing leaves.
- Watering can: offers gentle, controlled watering, perfect for delicate seedlings
- Garden hose: Easier to water large areas efficiently.
- Wheelbarrow: transports soil, plants, mulch, and tools around the yard.
- Garden gloves: protect your hands from blisters, thorns, the sun, and dirt.
- Soil scoop: good for transferring soil, compost, or fertilizer into pots or garden beds.
- Hand weeder: extracts weeds by the roots, preventing regrowth.
- Kneeling pad: provides comfort and support during long weeding or planting sessions.
- Garden scissors: snipping herbs, deadheading flowers, and light pruning.
- Cultivator: breaks up soil and mixes in compost or fertilizer.
- Garden twine: tie plants to stakes and train climbing vines.
- Stakes and plant supports: keep taller plants upright and healthy.
- Seedling tray: For young plants to grow before transplanting them into your garden beds.
- Compost bin or tumbler: to recycle kitchen and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost.
- Soil pH tester or moisture meter: helps to monitor your soil’s condition for optimal plant health.
- Protective gear: sun hat, apron, sunglasses, long pants/long sleeves/long socks, or kneepads, keeps you comfortable and safe while working outdoors.
- Storage shed, tool rack, garage, tool set bag, etc.: keeps your tools clean, organized, and protected from the weather.
What is the best gardening tool set?
The best gardening tools are the ones you will actually use!
Everyone’s gardening goals are different (indoor houseplants vs. backyard vegetable garden vs. community/classroom garden). The gardening tools on this list are a great starting point for beginners who want to get their hands in the soil but maybe not empty their pockets on the most professional gardening tool sets quite yet.
I hope this list answered all of your gardening tools questions, and I wish you a thriving garden this season!
Which gardening tool set are you going to choose and why? Let us know in the comments below! I’m sure others in the community would love to learn from you as well.
Stay well,
Maggie
This post was all about the best gardening tool sets.
Other gardening posts you may like:
23 Beginner-Friendly Terrace Gardening Ideas For Your Cozy Apartment
Free Blank Seed Packets Printable
7 Lush Full Sun Plants for Front Porch Hanging Baskets, Containers and Window boxes
20 Best Plants For Hydroponics Beginner Gardeners
7 Best Hanging Plants for Your Shaded Porch To Create a Charming Oasis
If you would like to save this gardening tool sets post for later-pin it!
