A well-kept lawn boosts your home’s look. The right tools make the job simple. This guide covers must-have items for cutting, feeding, and cleaning. Pick based on your yard size and needs. In 2025, battery-powered options lead for quiet, clean work. They match gas power without the noise or fumes. Regular care keeps grass thick and weeds low.
Cutting Tools for Even Grass
Cut grass often to keep it healthy. These tools handle the basics.
Lawn Mower
Lawn mowers trim grass to the right height. They stop overgrowth and help roots grow strong. Choose one that fits your space.
- Push mowers suit small yards up to half an acre.
- Riding mowers work for bigger lots.
- Battery models run quiet and start easy. They need little upkeep.
- Gas mowers cut thick patches well but use fuel.
Sharpen blades each year. Mow dry grass. Never remove more than one-third of the height at once.
For grass choices, check our best grass types for different climates guide.
String Trimmer
String trimmers clean up spots mowers skip. They handle edges around trees and fences.
- Electric trimmers stay light and quiet.
- Gas ones power through dense weeds.
- Adjustable shafts add comfort.
Run them after mowing. Wear safety glasses. Swap the line when it shortens.
Lawn Edger
Edgers make sharp borders between grass and paths. They keep turf from creeping out.
- Manual edgers cost less and need no power.
- Electric or gas edgers speed up long jobs.
Use them once a month in growing season. It keeps lines neat.
See budget options in 15 cheap lawn edging ideas that look expensive under $50.
Soil Health Tools
Good soil means strong grass. Test and improve it with these.
Soil Test Kit
Soil kits check pH and nutrients. They spot what your yard needs.
- Home kits work fast.
- Lab tests give full reports.
Test every two years. Add lime or fertilizer to fix balances.
Lawn Aerator
Aerators make holes in the ground. This lets water and air reach deep.
- Manual spike types suit small areas.
- Core aerators pull out soil plugs for best results.
Do it in spring or fall on damp soil.
Fertilizer Spreader
Spreaders put seed or food across the lawn evenly.
- Broadcast spreaders cover big spaces.
- Drop spreaders target small spots.
Set the rate right. Walk steady.
Backpack Sprayer
Sprayers apply liquids like weed control.
- Manual pump sprayers handle basics.
- Battery sprayers reduce arm work.
Follow mix instructions. Spray on still days.
Watering and Cleanup Tools
Water right and clear junk to keep things tidy.
Hose and Sprinkler
Hoses connect to sprinklers for even watering.
- Oscillating sprinklers fit square areas.
- Smart timers link to apps for weather-based schedules.
Water one inch weekly in the morning.
Skip common errors with lawn watering schedule mistakes to avoid.
Leaf Blower
Blowers move leaves and clips quick.
- Handheld blowers fit light tasks.
- Backpack blowers manage heavy loads.
Use in fall for leaves. Aim to piles for compost.
Rake and Shovel
Rakes pull leaves. Shovels shift dirt or dig.
- Flexible rakes grab light debris.
- Pointed shovels make holes.
Rake gentle to spare grass.
Safety Items and Add-Ons
Stay safe first. These help with protection and extras.
Work Gloves and Glasses
Gloves guard hands from cuts. Glasses shield eyes.
- Thick gloves for rough jobs.
- Clear lenses for all light.
Use with every power tool.
Pruning Shears
Shears cut branches and stems.
- Bypass shears for live cuts.
- Ratchet types ease hard snips.
Cut at 45 degrees. Clean after use.
How to Care for Your Tools
Wipe tools clean after jobs. Store them dry. Check oil or charge batteries often. Sharp edges work better.
| Tool | Care Step | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Mower | Sharpen blade | Once a year |
| Trimmer | Change line | When worn |
| Spreader | Empty and rinse | After use |
| Sprayer | Flush inside | After each time |
For dry yard advice, see how to create a drought-resistant lawn that stays green all summer.
Check models at STIHL’s yard tools guide.
Answers to Key Questions
What are beginner tools? Get a mower, trimmer, and rake first.
Gas or battery? Battery for less noise, gas for raw strength.
Best aerate time? Fall for cool grass, spring for warm.
Need a soil test? Yes, it finds pH problems.
For yard upgrades, try affordable backyard makeover ideas under $1000.
These tools build a strong lawn. Match them to your space. Steady work brings results.