Smart steps to lighten the load Gardening doesn't have to mean chores. Get great results with less effort. If managing a full-grown compost pile is more than you can handle, cut things down to size. Grind veggie scraps in a blender and scratch them in around your plants. You can collect bits and pieces in a bag in the freezer until you have a full load.
Water is heavy, about eight pounds to the gallon, so plan ahead to satisfy thirsty plants.
Put soaker hoses down in spring for easy, season-long watering. The crystals soak up water and release it slowly, minimizing watering chores. And always mulch bare soil to reduce water loss. Watering wands gently irrigate containers and the back of borders. Add a long-handled reaching tool to your garden shed and you'll scoop up twigs and bits of litter without a twinge.