My Favorite Garden Products

It's a new garden season!

I typically post on the blog once or twice a month during the months of March-August/September.  For this first post of 2022, I thought I would share some  products that I've found to work well for me out in the garden.

Products:

1.) Sunscreen sticks - When I was in high school, I worked as a lifeguard.  When you're young you care more about your tan than you're skin.  Needless to say, I usually didn't wear sunscreen and my skin is showing that now.  This year I discovered sunscreen sticks.  They're not greasy like lotion, give you protection against the sun's rays, and you can carry them in your pocket.  Here's the link to what I use, but you may want one with a higher SPF.
https://www.amazon.com/Coppertone-SPORT-Sunscreen-Spectrum-1-5-Ounce/dp/B074W8L14W

2.)  Latex/household gloves - I like attractive garden gloves, but after years of using them, I found they were like socks when you put them in the washer/dryer.  Only one would make it out of the load and then you're stuck wearing mismatched gloves.  I also didn't like the standard cotton gloves because they weren't waterproof.  Last year I switched to using latex/household gloves.  I love them because they're disposable - I never have to wash them - they're inexpensive, come in different sizes (S,M,L) and they're surprisingly durable.  If you have a latex allergy, there are latex free options as well.
https://www.kroger.com/p/kroger-reusable-latex-gloves-yellow/0001111078951?fulfillment=PICKUP&storecode=02900326&&cid=shp_adw_shopl_.kroger_g_lia_shop_acq_evgn_ship_cleaning+and+household&gclid=EAIaIQobChMInN_T7rTV9gIVCaiGCh3ROAhCEAQYBSABEgIthvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

3.) Vintage spades-  I've spent many hours of my life looking for my glasses when I'm indoors and my spades when I'm outdoors.  Last year someone gave me a bag of vintage spades.  Years ago, things were made to last a long time.  Vintage spades can be found at antique shops for much less than the cost of buying a new one.  I've had new garden tools, and I've enjoyed them, but I love my vintage spades even more.  If you don't have an antique shop where you live, see what's listed on ebay.
www.ebay.com

4.)  Polarized sunglasses-After graduating from college, I worked for a time at some optical companies.  While there, I learned about polarized glasses lenses.  If you work outside, I think polarized sunglasses are a must. Polarized lenses help cut the glare of the sun. Make sure your lenses also have UV protection. 

5.) Bandanas/handkerchiefs- I started using these more last year.  In July and August when the heat reaches summer highs, these are great for wiping your face, or to wear around your forehead - they also keep your hair up.  Shop basic or "artsy" -
https://www.hobbylobby.com/search/?text=bandanas

6.) Gardening knee bench- My mom bought a garden knee bench (similar to this) for me a couple of years ago.  I've used it a lot this year and I can honestly say, this thing is a knee and back saver. :)  You can sit or kneel, and it comes with a pouch to put your spades, etc.  
https://www.amazon.com/Lucky-Tree-Folding-Lightweight-Kneeling/dp/B07CGYBJWT

7.)  Metal watering can- Last year I "splurged" on a metal watering can.  I had used plastic ones for years, and while they work, I felt a metal one was more durable.  I got a yellow one that even I can see from a distance, which is good since I'm always misplacing my garden equipment.

https://www.amazon.com/Galvanized-Watering-Outdoor-Plants-Accents/dp/B08Z2SD1FJ/ref=asc_df_B08Z2SD1FJ/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=507604315818&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8602472333879123525&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9008885&hvtargid=pla-1314651270477&th=1