Lawn care is easy, especially when you have the right tools for the job.
No two lawns are the same, so neither should the tools that you use to take care of it. With different grass varieties, soil compositions, lawn size and shape, moisture levels and shade being some key differences to consider when selecting lawn tools.
Here’s a list of the main lawn care tools you will need:
Lawn Mowers
Lawn mowers come in such a variety of sizes, types and price ranges that you should do some careful research before purchasing one.
When deciding which is the best type of mower for you, consider the size of your lawn, the type of turf you have, whether your lawn is flat or on a slope (a self-propelled mower will take some work out of this), any trees, roots or planter boxes that will require manoeuvrability and of course your budget.
Some options are:
- Rotary catcher mower – 2* or 4 stroke
- Rotary mulching mower, best to get one that can be used with a catcher as well – 2* or 4 stroke
*Note – There are regulatory changes coming into effect to reduce 2 stroke high emission products being brought onto the Australian market, so make sure you buy a new model that is better for the environment.
- Cylinder mower – usually 4 stroke
- Electric mower
- Battery operated mower
- Ride on mower – 4 stroke or diesel
- Zero turn mower – 4 stroke or diesel
- Out front mower – 4 stroke or diesel
Whipper Snipper
Whipper snippers are a handy device for trimming edges, along paths, around trees or other garden ornaments. They use a rotating flexible nylon line to cut through grass, weeds and small unwanted plants.
Whipper snippers come in several versions: straight shaft or curved shaft with 2 or 4 stroke petrol motors or battery-operated models.
Weeding Brush
A weeding brush can be used for easy spot weeding of foreign grasses and weeds in your lawn. Simply fill with glyphosate (Round Up, Zero or equivalent) and paint the foreign plant with the tip of the brush. Just be careful not to paint it on your lawn though! For waxy weeds, add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to aid the glyphosate penetrating the leaf.
Pump action or back mounted sprayers
It’s handy to have a general-purpose sprayer in the shed for when you’re tackling weed or pest control. Available from small hand help models up to larger20l back pack models.
Lawn aerators
Great for clay base lawns needing regular Gypsum application and to loosen high traffic and compacted areas. For heavily compacted areas, a garden fork can be used by pushing into the soil profile and rocking back and forward.
Hoses and attachments
Possibly the most indispensable tool for the gardener – from the standard variety garden hose which can be fitted with a nozzle for varying the flow of water, to soaker hoses which are suitable for lawns, along fences, narrow garden beds and nature strips. A good sturdy hose reel is also a good idea to eliminate tangles, kinks and other annoying issues.
Sprinkler systems
For a good soaking, which is the best way to establish your new lawn and give it the best start, you can’t beat a good sprinkler or sprinkler system. Available in many different types, you will need to work out which type of watering system will be the best for your lawn. Remember on established lawns infrequent deep watering is better than frequent light watering to get those roots down deep.
Combination moisture, light and pH tester
Plants and lawns have individual light, pH and watering needs. Combination meters will enable you to make sure your lawn is getting the sun it requires, the right amount of moisture and has the correct pH.
Roller – spikes & smooth
A lawn roller is most commonly used to level the ground prior to the establishment of new turf. They can establish proper drainage patterns and increase the overall look of the land. After the turf is laid, a lawn roller is useful for pushing the grass roots into the soil and removing air pockets.
A spiked roller is useful for aerating your lawn, also handy for incorporating lime, gypsum, or coarse sand into the profile to improve pH or drainage.
Rotary turf edger, half-moon edger
Designed to keep your paths and walkways looking perfectly neat. Available in petrol powered models or hand powered versions.
Rakes
A leaf rake is handy for collecting those autumn leaves or other debris blown onto the lawn or driveway after a windy day.
Shears
Need to trim back some of those trees and shrubs that are starting to shade your lawn too much? Get a pair of quality shears.
pH testing kit
For the best growth of your lawn it is essential that the pH in your turf underlay is suitable. Keep your lawn in top condition with the pH testing kit.
Check out the Lawn Solutions Australia lawn care page for more helpful tips and advice here.
