Choosing tools that fit

We're all different shapes and sizes as gardeners, so you wouldn't expect to feel comfortable using the same tools as your taller-than-average neighbour.

That's why it's important to choose tools that fit. It makes your gardening life more comfortable, and it's better for your health. If you work stooped over a fork that's too short, or struggle with a rake that's too tall, it's a recipe for a bad back and muscle problems. You should be able to work standing as straight and upright as possible, without straining your arms or shoulders.

Fortunately in our garden centre we have tools in a wide range of lengths and weights, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Lift the tool as you would in the garden: is it the right weight, and not too heavy (or too light)? Grip the handle, too, to test it's a comfortable width.

Then stand it next to you. For an average height the length of handle is around 72cm, but we have longer and shorter in our garden centre.

We also have tools for gardeners with particular needs: left-handed secateurs, for example, or long-handled trowels for those who find it difficult to bend down.

Please ask the staff in our garden centre in Hereford for more information about how to make sure you choose tools which are right for you.