12 Essential Gardening Tools for Senior Gardeners

In the Garden Sue Aug 17, 2024
19 People Read
Garden tools

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. As an amazon associate I earn on qualifying purchases 

A well-equipped senior gardener knows that having the right tools and gear is vital for successful gardening. Whether you're a novice or an experienced gardener, investing in high-quality equipment can make a world of difference especially if you have arthritis, back or joint pain.

In this article, we've expanded our list to include the top 12 essential gardening  tools and gear that every senior gardener should consider.

From practical footwear to efficient power tools, these additions will further enhance your gardening experience.

Let's explore these essential tools for elderly gardeners that I use in my garden and have reviewed to make purchases easier for you!

Hi I am Susan from In The Garden Sue. I am a Physical Therapist, Master Gardener and published author. I strive to help fellow gardeners prevent pain as they garden into their senior years. I create honest reviews of gardening tools for seniors and those with arthritis and other joint pains. 

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Lets get Started:

1. Sloggers Footwear:

sloggers garden shoes

Protecting your feet is crucial when working in the garden, and Sloggers Footwear offers comfortable and durable options. These waterproof shoes are designed specifically for gardening, with excellent traction and easy cleaning, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable.

2. Mesh Shade Sun Hats

Shielding yourself from the sun is essential during long hours in the garden. The Columbia Booney Hat provides UPF 50 sun protection and features a wide brim for maximum coverage. It is breathable, cool, and lightweight, making it perfect for extended gardening sessions.

This hat has a pony tail cut out, which is essential if you wear your hair up while gardening. This is the one I use and its sold for under $20. I found this inexpensive one to be the coolest on hot days!

sun hat with ponytail opening

3. Gardening Gloves with Grip

garden gloves

Gloves with a secure grip are indispensable for handling tools and protecting your hands. Look for gloves made with durable materials, such as synthetic leather or rubber, that offer both flexibility and a secure grip.

Your hands will not fatigue as quickly in gloves made of material for better grip.

Check out the thermal lined ones for working in the cold weather, too.

4. EGO Cordless Hedge Trimmer

Cordless Hedge Trimmer

As a woman who likes to be very independent, I shy away from equipment and tools with pull starts because I find them difficult for me to start. Well, there is no pull start with this one!

With this cordless hedge trimmer, I can slip the battery on and start trimming immediately. I like that it comes in different blade lengths to reach up higher or trim more at one time you can have that option. We have other EGO products and If you do than you only have to buy the trimmer not the battery, because the batteries are interchangeable between tools. I always have one battery charging as I am using the other one.

It's light weight and I don't have to drag a cord around the yard and I have no fuel mess like other hedge trimmers on the market. 

5. Garden Planner

A garden planner is a valuable tool for organizing and designing your garden. It helps you visualize your layout, plan crop rotations, and keep track of planting schedules.

I started making my own handmade logs to organize and help my gardens flourish, then decided to publish them into a garden journal that would suit any kind of gardener's needs.

Garden Planner

garden planner and log book

6. Garden Kneeler Seat

To protect your knees and back from strain while working close to the ground, a garden kneeler is a game-changer. It provides cushioning and support, making tasks like planting, weeding, and pruning more comfortable and enjoyable.

I have had this for years and use it every time I am in the garden!

garden kneeler seat

I have written a comprehensive review on gardening stools for seniors! Click here to see the winner of the review

7. Garden Cart or Wheelbarrow

garden cart

Transporting heavy loads of soil, mulch, or plants becomes effortless with a garden cart or wheelbarrow. Look for a sturdy and well-balanced option that can handle your gardening needs. It will save you time and effort, especially when moving heavy materials.

This makes gardening and yard cleanup a must have for any gardener. It's a wagon and a dump cart all in one. The 2 in 1 convertible handle can be towed behind a tractor or ATV or pulled by hand. 1,200 lb. load capacity.

8. Garden Pruning Saw from EGO

For larger branches and tougher pruning jobs, a reliable pruning saw is a must-have. The EGO Power+ Cordless Pruning Saw offers powerful performance and cordless convenience.

Its brushless motor and sharp blade make quick work of cutting through thick branches.

My Husband using our Pruning Saw from EGO:

pole saw

9. Pruning Shears from Felco:

Felco pruning shears are renowned for their quality and precision. They are ideal for trimming, shaping, and harvesting plants. Felco offers a range of models suitable for different hand sizes and pruning needs, ensuring clean and efficient cuts. Check out my review of 3 Hand Pruners for Arthritic Hands that includes this Felco Pruner.

I have had my Felco F-6 for 10 years and they are still in great shape! The F-6 model is for smaller hands

Felco hands Pruners

10. Ergonomic Hand Trowel

An ergonomic trowel minimizes strain on your hand and wrist during digging and planting. Look for a trowel with a comfortable handle and a sturdy, rust-resistant blade. This tool will make your planting tasks easier and more enjoyable.

This one is my favorite and as a Physical Therapist, I think this company  has all the features to have less hand fatigue and better grip. 

hand garden trowel

11. Mantis Garden Tiller

The Mantis Garden Tiller is a versatile tool that makes soil preparation a breeze. Its compact size and powerful performance allow you to effortlessly break up compacted soil and mix in compost or amendments, ensuring optimal growing conditions for your plants. This tiller is small and can till between rows in the garden easily. I also like that its lightweight and I can start it easily. 

My Mantis tiller:

my tiller

12. Cordless Battery Powered Leaf Blower from EGO

Keeping your garden free from debris and leaves is made easy with the EGO Power Cordless Leaf Blower. This battery-powered blower offers high performance and efficient leaf clearing

without the noise and fumes of a gas-powered alternative.

Here is mine:

leaf blower

With these top 12 essential garden tools and gear, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any gardening task. From protecting yourself with Sloggers footwear and a Columbia Booney Hat to efficiently carrying your tools with a garden basket, these additions will enhance your gardening experience.

The Felco pruning shears, EGO pruning saw, and Mantis garden tiller will help you maintain your plants and prepare the soil effectively. Don't forget the garden planner to stay organized and the ergonomic trowel for comfortable planting.

Finally, the garden kneeler, garden cart, and EGO leaf blower will make your gardening sessions more comfortable and efficient. Invest in high-quality tools and gear, and watch your garden flourish with ease and enjoyment.

Happy gardening!

Here are my Latest Garden Tools Reviews:

Best Gardening Tool Guide for Seniors with Weak Hands


How to Choose the Best Cooling Sun Hat for Gardening


Pain Free Gardening: The Best Seats, Stools and Garden Carts


Exploring The Best Long Handled Pruners for Senior Gardeners


The Ultimate Guide for Choosing The Best Shovels for Yard Work or Gardening


Disclosure:  Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. As an amazon associate I earn on qualifying purchases