Although temperatures are starting to cool in Corona, CA, many areas of the county are already experiencing their first frost or snow in northern states. It’s a good idea to remove leaves from the lawn, spread them as mulch in planter boxes, take out any damaged trees or potential hazards in winter storms, clean and sharpen your tools, and then plant bulbs. The following tools are essential, considering it’s daylight savings time and the fact that Mother Nature can throw us curve balls with unpredictable weather conditions from time to time. Find out what tools we recommend, and then share your fall cleanup essentials.
HipTrug and Wheelbarrow
A wheelbarrow is a great time-saver, depending on how large your garden beds are. A wheelbarrow that is 6-10 cubic feet in size is ideal for transporting plants to the compost bin.
The Burgon & Ball Hip-Trug is easy to attach and allows you to easily collect any fruits and vegetables that are still available.
Ensilage Fork
One of the best things you can do in this season is to spread a thick layer of mulch around the garden and planting areas. The wheelbarrow can be moved quickly and efficiently using an ensilage fork that has narrow tines. This allows you to move large quantities of material quickly, which saves time and helps avoid burning daylight in the shorter fall days. You can also use a fork to turn your compost, so you have rich compost ready to go for the spring.
Garden tools with extended handles
In your raised planter beds, clean up any weeds or vegetable plants. These tools can be extended to reach the plants at the bottom of the planter, and then smoothen the soil. Cover crops are great for temperate climates. They prevent soil erosion and spread of weeds. To help prevent weeds from growing and protect your soil, cover the area with leaves or cardboard if it freezes.
Extra Large Rake
The gift of nature is tree leaves for your garden and landscape. Although some homeowners view them as an inconvenience to pick up, bag, and place out on the curb, they are a great resource for your gardeners. They can be used as a thick mulch layer and provide shelter for wildlife during winter months. With a BigLOAD rake, you can take the hassle out of fall chores. This will make the job twice as easy.
Hand saw
A saw is a must-have tool for property owners with trees. Fall isn’t the best time to prune, but it’s a good time to inspect any diseased, damaged or dead tree limbs once they have fallen. These limbs can become hazards in winter storms if they are left on the tree. Particularly if they are located near structures that could cause extensive property damage.
Tool Sharpener
A gardener’s best friend is a tool sharpener. While colder climate gardeners prefer to work outside this time of the year, it is a great time to clean and maintain your tools indoors. Get rid of any dirt or debris left over from the digging and cutting tools. Grab your tool sharpener and give the tools a quick shave. It takes just a few seconds to sharpen the small carbide file so you have your tools ready for when it comes to late winter pruning.
Garden Trowel and Kneelos
After you have gotten your yard ready for winter, it’s time to plant spring bulbs in fall. You can ensure that you are planting the bulbs at the correct depth by using a trowel with built-in depth gauge. The ComforGEL grip absorbs shock and the sharpened tip drives the tool into the soil. The tool’s comfortable grip prevents aching hands and blisters from the next day.
It’s also important to have a pair knee pads or kneelers from Kneelo for protection while digging in the soil.