Stop wasting your money — Gardeners share the common yard expenses to avoid (and great hacks to save cash)
I asked gardeners what the biggest money-wasters are that we often spend for our yards. Here’s what they said and what to buy instead.
As summer arrives, homeowners are eager to tend to their yards and lawns. However, it is easy to be enticed by pricey gardening equipment and premium supplies, believing they will make yard work effortless. Yet, experienced gardeners caution that many of these items are in fact unnecessary expenditures with limited practical advantages. To help homeowners reduce their gardening expenses, experts have shared common yard expenses to avoid, along with cost-saving tips.
Firstly, avoid purchasing fertilizer without conducting a soil test. Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal, notes that many people waste money on fertilizer that does not benefit their garden. He advises homeowners to test their soil pH balance before buying any fertilizer, which can easily be done with a soil meter or a soil testing kit. Using homemade fertilizers, such as mulching lawn clippings, can also save money and promote healthier lawns.
Secondly, stay away from cheap plastic gardening tools. Angelika Zaber, Lawn Care Specialist and Gardening Expert at Online Turf, points out that plastic tools degrade faster than metal ones and eventually need to be replaced more often, resulting in additional costs. Instead, opt for high-quality, durable tools or even invest in biodegradable alternatives.
Charlie Gilbert, Managing Director of Ransom Spares, stresses the importance of buying only the tools you will use regularly and thoroughly research the tools needed for your garden.
Lastly, stay clear of low-quality garden furniture. Despite the allure of trendy outdoor pieces on platforms like Pinterest, low-quality furniture is prone to fading, rusting, or cracking, particularly in sunny, humid, or rainy climates. Gilbert recommends choosing durable, weather-resistant furniture, and considering buying secondhand items from local listings, yard sales, or thrift stores. Not only does this save money, but it also allows you to find pre-loved furniture that has been well-maintained and tested.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
