But if you have a half acre or less to maintain, a push mower will do the job just fine. If you have a small yard, a manual reel mower may be practical too, though they can be hard to find. Whichever you choose, keep the blades sharp, and proper care and cleaning will extend its life. Gas and electric powered trimmers are available, but the gas trimmer will allow more freedom of movement. Careful landscaping can minimize the need to trim by eliminating areas the lawn mower won t reach, but you ll probably need one anyway.
Trimmers can serve double duty as a sidewalk edger, too, though the result won t look quite as neat.
A broadcast spreader is invaluable for fertilizing and seeding. And of course, the approach of fall will signal the need to purchase a rake. A wheelbarrow is also an important addition. Trees and bushes will need to be pruned, and hedges will need trimming. You ll need a hand pruner for keeping bushes neat and healthy, and a lopper for cutting bigger branches.