Mary, Mary, quite contrary; how does your garden grow? We all know the popular singsong tales of Mary and her garden, but how do gardens really grow? Of course there can be no denying the power of a true green thumb, but the right tools and supplies don’t hurt either. Basic gardening tools can make all the difference in the world when it comes to growing beautiful plants. Here are some useful garden tools that are on every gardener’s must have list.

1. Tool caddy and seat– These devises are basically pockets that can be hung from your waist or from your wheelbarrow. They are useful for carrying seeds and other tools to keep you from loosing them. A comfortable garden seat can make working in your yard much easier on your knees and back to avoid possible aches and pains later in the day.

2. Fertilizer– A good fertilizer has a proper mix of ingredients, including nitrogen, for the plants you are growing. Pay close attention to the composition in the fertilizer or even try starting your own compost pile, it will cut down on garbage and provide a great source of nutrients for your plants and help keep toxins out of our water supply. I add a couple inches of compost to my gardening beds yearly (instead of a mulch or bark dust) and have incredible soil. I buy it by the yard at my local bark dust or landscape supply store.

3. Watering can – Few people know that the watering cans with longer necks provide a more gentle flow and are better to use on seedlings or plants that are just beginning to sprout. If you can pick out one with a detachable head, it will be even better to help get closer to the plant without disturbing it. A good watering wand is even better if your hose reaches your garden. Better yet, the Garden Caddy, lets you take roll 2 gallons of water with you.

4. Garden shears – A good pair of garden shears can make all the difference when it comes time to prune. Getting ergonomic shears will help out in preventing cramps and blisters. Hint: I lose my shears more than any other tool I own when I inadvertently set them somewhere in my flower beds. Tie a bright ribbon to the handle to make them easier to spot if you leave them behind.

5. Spading fork – This bent-edged pitchfork is a handy little tool to begin breaking up the ground in preparation for plating. The hand-held aeration tool is a must-have when it comes to breaking up the ground and getting it ready for the stages of planting.

 6. Round head shovel – A solid round head shovel is a giant help when it comes to giant plants, such as trees or shrubs. Being able to dig deep holes will help in ensuring the root system of the bigger plants get deep enough to avoid external conditions.

 7. Gardening spade – This smaller version of the round head shovel is better suited for smaller work on plants and vegetables, which are still immature. Be sure to choose a spade that is comfortable in your hand so that you reduce the risk of blisters. The radius garden tools are my favorite. They work great and are easy on your wrists.

 8. Hoe – A good strong hoe is perfect for weeding and cultivating.

 9. Bow rake – This is not your typical long bladed rake. This heavy-duty rake has short teeth, which are attached to a metal bow. This is perfect for breaking up clumps of soil and can be flipped over to help smooth out the soil in preparation for planting.

 10. Wheelbarrow – Moving soil by the shovel full can be a bit tiring. A sturdy wheelbarrow can make transporting soil and plants around your yard much easier on your back and your sanity. Look for one with a big pneumatic wheel for ease of use.

 These top 10 gardening must haves will have your fairy tale garden up and growing in no time.