Gardening is one of the most rewarding hobbies out there, but it can feel overwhelming if you don’t have the right tools. The good news? You don’t need a shed full of fancy gear to get started. Here’s a roundup of the essential gardening tools every beginner needs—all for under $50 total. Let’s get your hands dirty!

1. Hand Trowel ($8)
A hand trowel is your go-to for planting, transplanting, and digging small holes. It’s perfect for setting tomato seedlings or herbs like basil into the soil. Look for one with a sturdy metal blade and a comfy handle—ergonomic grips save your wrists during long planting sessions. You’ll use this tool every time you garden, so don’t skimp on quality.

2. Watering Can ($10)
Consistent watering is key to a thriving garden, and a watering can lets you control the flow better than a hose. Get one with a 1-2 gallon capacity and a rose attachment for gentle sprinkling—great for delicate plants like lettuce or spinach. Our has watering advice for every plant, like keeping rose leaves dry to prevent mildew.

3. Pruning Shears ($12)
Pruning shears are a must for trimming plants and harvesting. Use them to pinch tomato suckers, cut back rosemary after flowering, or snip fresh zinnias for a vase. Look for a pair with a sharp blade and a safety lock—bypass-style shears (like scissors) work best for live stems. Keep them clean to avoid spreading disease between plants.

4. Garden Gloves ($5)
Protect your hands from thorns, dirt, and blisters with a good pair of gloves. They’re especially handy when handling prickly plants like roses or pulling weeds. Choose gloves with a grippy coating on the palms and breathable fabric on top—cheap cotton ones work fine for beginners. Wash them regularly to keep them fresh.

5. Shovel ($15)
A small shovel (or spade) is essential for digging larger holes, mixing soil, and harvesting root veggies like carrots. It’s also great for prepping a raised bed or turning compost into your soil. Go for a lightweight model with a D-shaped handle for better leverage—you’ll thank yourself when you’re breaking up tough dirt.

Bonus: Use Your Estimator for Supplies
Need mulch, pots, or fertilizer to go with your tools? Our can help you budget for extras. For example, a beginner veggie garden with two tomato plants, a pot, and mulch (plus these tools) comes out to about $65 total—affordable and doable!

Conclusion
With these five tools, you’re ready to tackle any beginner gardening project. They’ll help you plant, maintain, and harvest like a pro—without draining your wallet. Want to plan your first garden? Try our to see your costs, and check out our for growing advice. Let’s grow something amazing!