Sunday, June 3, 2012

Garden Tool Storage Ideas

During Memorial Day weekend, I spent a lot of time in our yard. We have several projects we are working on to get our yard in shape to enjoy this summer. One of those projects is building a new deck. We?re also building planter boxes for the deck and benches that I?m guessing the dogs will use year round. With the deck almost finished, it was time to haul away the old deck materials and other items from our yard. I took a quick sweep through our outdoor garden tool storage area to see which items were broken or no longer used and tossed them in the truck as well. Cleaning out our tool storage area took me less than 15 minutes and freed up a lot of space for me to reorganize. Spending so much time in our yard over the weekend got me thinking about ways to help you organize your garden tools.

If you are in need of a garden tool storage solution, it is helpful to take note of a few key factors in order to determine which method is best for you.

Tool Inventory

One factor to keep in mind is the amount and type of garden tools that you will be using. Before you decide on a storage plan of action, it is important to look at the tools you currently own and assess what tools you may need. You can then make a reasonable garden storage decision.

Storage Options

Mobile Storage

Gardening is a lot more enjoyable when your necessities are within an arm?s reach. Mobile garden storage is perfect for the smaller items such as your spades and shears. There are many varieties of this type of storage. I chose the following samples because they are affordable and functional.

  • Flowerpot and sand: Fill a flowerpot with sand and mix in a couple tablespoons of motor oil to keep your essentials clean and rust free. A bread pan or a metal pail with a handle would also work well. Add your own personal flare with waterproof labels or a little acrylic paint.
  • Wooden toolbox: This toolbox is great for toting your gardening items in an orderly fashion. You can purchase this box or you can reconstruct one by adding a coat of water resistant paint. If you do decide to create your own, find one with a handle and a lid if at all possible.

Put away Storage

Create a place to tuck away all your gardening tools so your yard is clear of hazardous obstacles.? Finding an unobtrusive and stylish solution will allow you and others to enjoy the fruits, or veggies, of your labor.

  • Garden box with lid: I love the idea of having a basic lidded box to not only serve as garden tool storage, but to double as seating as well. Throw on an outdoor cushion and you will be set! Find a garden storage box like this one at your local home supply store.
garden tool storage box

Picture by www.sunset.com

  • Mailbox tool storage: For those of you who only use a few small items to maintain your greens, a repurposed mailbox might be just what you need. Simply find a mailbox that is big enough to hold all your tools and find a spot in your garden that allows you easy access. I personally prefer an old wooden mailbox because it adds a little character to the outdoor space.
  • Wooden cupboard: A wooden cupboard is the perfect way to add beauty while organizing your gardening supplies. Look for a large cupboard like the one shown below at a flea market. Add baskets and hooks as needed to keep your display attractive.
garden storage cupboard

Picture by www.bhg.com

Vertical Storage

Whether you decide to hang your garden tools on a wall or use a standing container to store your equipment upright, this option is always frees square footage.

  • Pegboard: Mount a pegboard to a wall and attach your gardening utensils by using either wire or hooks. Baskets serve as a catchall for seeds, bulbs, and other small items that cannot hang independently.
pegboard tool storage

Picture by www.marthastewart.com

  • Wooden crate: A large wooden crate is ideal for storing taller gardening tools such as rakes and shovels. Crates are often used for shipping large furniture pieces, so ask your local furniture store if they will let you take one off their warehouse floor.

I hope these ideas have shown you how easy organizing your garden tool storage can be. Now it?s time to put on those garden gloves and create a space that will give you easy access to the tools you need for your outdoor projects.

Don?t forget that Father?s Day is just around the corner. Maybe your dad would appreciate your help organizing this space and spending time with you during the process. A project like this makes a nice gift, and you can attach a gift certificate for your time to a new tool box or other mobile storage option.

May this gardening season be prosperous for you, and may it bring you lots of joy. Happy organizing!

Warmly,

Laura Leist, CPO
Organizing with Laura

sanctum the notebook duke basketball miranda july joe paterno near death joepa sc primary

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.