(Part 2) Best gardening hand tools according to redditors

https://www.amazon.com/iLOT-Handled-Vegetable-Seedling-Transplanter/dp/B015IUMOFU

https://www.amazon.com/iLOT-Handled-Vegetable-Seedling-Transplanter/dp/B015IUMOFU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481048779&sr=8-1

Since these things have been in use for over 100 years, yes.

I'd recommend the Ames True Temper Five Tine Manure Fork 1838100

https://www.amazon.com/VELCRO-Brand-Adjustable-Gardens-Gardening/dp/B005755YSQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?keywords=velcro+plant+ties&qid=1563540242&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

Sorry to hear about your loss.

To help you water correctly, pick up an inexpensive moisture meter. Check each plant every few days and you'll know exactly which ones need water and which ones don't. Good luck!

Here's one at Amazon. Your local hardware store or Lowes should carry them as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Indoor-Outdoor-Moisture-Hygrometer/dp/B00CTPXXEE/ref=lp_553270_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1463231948&sr=1-1

Energy drinks are my favorite self-indulgent treats. Other little things for myself are cute earrings, stationary supplies like pens and washi tape, enamel pins, or makeup. I adore the Korean and Japanese makeup that comes in the cutest packaging. Most of that stuff I do not get on Amazon though.

I like getting stuff for my cats, too. I recently bought [one of these] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DT2WL26/ref=oh_aui_i_d_old_o0_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1). One of my cats loves it, the rest are mostly indifferent. Still worth it.

I also recently bought this set of succulent gardening tools to help me manage my growing succulent garden. It's very handy!

I swear by this thing. It is my go-to when correcting dead or patchy spots including dog urine burns. You can use it on existing grass as it will generally till the area while keeping the living grass interact.

Generally speaking this is for spot corrections and smaller areas (up to 100 sq feet.) I've used it on up to 300-500 sq feet but you'd better be prepared for a workout if you want to tackle anything at that size.

Garden Weasel Cultivator Long Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002ECYRH4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1ViBCb2F3NB40

I don't know why everyone uses weird shit.

I use Plant Training Tape.
That's designed for this exact use.


I can see advantages to using twisty ties or something but the training tape is best IMO.

You can easily tighten or loosen it and it naturally stretches a bit to allow the plant to grow.

https://www.amazon.com/Thick-Stretch-Plant-Garden-Green/dp/B00DG75DS8

If you want bulk velcro, get it in the Gardening category. Half the price of the one you listed for 75' instead of 15'.

Garden weasel

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002ECYRH4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_SGEqDbQSEH1KC

https://www.amazon.com/iLOT-Handled-Vegetable-Seedling-Transplanter/dp/B015IUMOFU found a link thanks to u/davy73 who linked it above

I second taping it up. I normally just use plant tie tape but any sort of tape (even duct) will work assuming you take it off a few weeks later. With the plant tie stuff I just wrap it around the break and knot it since it's not sticky. Works great and will even give support to a branch that's dangling.

I use a dremel and a guide.
https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-A679-02-Attachment-Sharpening-Gardening/dp/B003BIFMK6
Dont forget the balance.
https://www.amazon.com/Stens-750-042-Blade-Balancer/dp/B000VYKS1Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526449071&sr=8-1&keywords=lawn+mower+blade+balance

https://www.amazon.com/Ames-True-Temper-Manure-1838100/dp/B00002N6D2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1465395657&sr=8-4&keywords=pitch+fork

or

https://www.amazon.com/Husqvarna-18-Inch-2-Cycle-Powered-Compliant/dp/B001DO1OMK/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1465395702&sr=8-13&keywords=chain+saw

You could put a cup of soil/dirt/sand outside and have a soil moisture sensor implanted inside it

Edit: Added a link to amazon for ease.

Sure! I’m afraid I don’t have any professional tips, but I’ll give it a shot. Most of these guys are really small, the largest ones in the middle are about 2cm in diameter, so none of them have very large roots. I filled the pot about 2/3 of the way up with a perlite/pumice mixture and a little bit of soil, and then basically placed a plant and covered the roots up with the same mix. It was plant/cover until I had all of them generally where I wanted and thankfully the pumice/perlite was pretty forgiving if I needed anything to move slightly. I also found that a chopstick is a huge help for the tiny work! That or this set, the tweezers and little scoop are also very useful. I topped with a little more perlite, and the very top is a thin layer of black sand. Hope that helps!

This thing literally might be one of the best investments my camp ever made.

Now you can buy it on Amazon

Not OP, but I've been a houseplant enthusiast for almost as long as a pc gaming enthusiast. Believe it or not, it is far more preferable to underwater your plants than to over water your plants, unless very specifically told otherwise on a plant to plant basis. Most tropicals and succulents are very resilient and can withstand drought. At the same time, root rot from overwatering is the most common way people accidentally kill their plants. What you could do is stick your finger ~2 inches into the soil. If it feels bone dry you can water it then, or even wait another few days to water. If you see leaf wilt thats OKAY, just check the soil as its most likely super dry, and water it.

If you want super easy mode (and no shame at all if you do), grab one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Atree-Tester-Moisture-Outdoor-Battery/dp/B07R4RPS54/

Thats one of the best 15$ investments I've ever made for my house. Just go around checking each plant with that. If its dry, water it. If the dial moves even in the slightest, leave it alone.

Lastly, you WILL kill plants. It's just going to happen. Nobody has a perfect plant immortality rate. You'll get used to it. My recommendations for easy houseplants are:

ZZ plant

Snake plant

Pathos

You pretty much have to actually try and kill those plants for them to die.

Does he have any gardening equipment to add to the mix? I've heard that a Weed Eater can do some real damage.

...and no one is gonna mess with a man wielding a Garden Weasel.

You might consider this to move the grass in the ankle breaking holes. Put a plug in the middle or a few in it. It will help the grass fill in faster.

https://www.amazon.com/Thick-Stretch-Plant-Garden-Green/dp/B00DG75DS8/

This what you "should" use. It's made for these exact issues. However electrical tape or duct tape will work fine but you'll want to change out the tape as the plant will continue to grow and this could cause other issues.

For a folder I could recommend the Ontario RAT 1.

One of the best value knives out there, awesome quality, ergos and is very usable as well - great option for a first proper knife.

As for axes - check out Husqvarna 13" hatchet.

Made in the same factory as Hiltafors and Hults Bruk but costs much less.

I have a similar one and it works well https://www.amazon.com/iLOT-Handled-Vegetable-Seedling-Transplanter/dp/B015IUMOFU/ Being able to stand and plant is amazing. I don't yet have a good way to hold trays though so I first pop out all the plugs and have them in a sling over my shoulder

I would go for a spade, a fork and a cultivator, basic tools needed for earth preparation. And you might also want to make a compost heap with your cement blocks, while you make the raised beds.

http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-Steel-D-handle-Square-Garden/dp/B000BX4SLS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1420539441&sr=8-2&keywords=spade

http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-Steel-D-Handle-Garden-333400-1001/dp/B00EQ053G6/ref=sr_1_1?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1420539529&sr=1-1&keywords=fork+garden

http://www.amazon.com/Ames-True-Temper-163034000-Cultivator/dp/B006JRTZ4K/ref=sr_1_33?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1420539645&sr=1-33&keywords=cultivator

This: https://www.amazon.com/Husqvarna-576926301-13-Wooden-Hatchet/dp/B00HC077GQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=3SVRD231HFH5J&keywords=husqvarna+hatchet&qid=1556040217&s=gateway&sprefix=husqvarna+ha&sr=8-2

Marbles camp axe or the Husqvarna hatchet

Nutes: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006XTQGLO?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Few packages of these to hang lights and filter:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B010DD743O?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Extension cords
Plenty of options

Lights
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01B4GQ6MO?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Fabric pots:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00TF9E6XE?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Air control
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01H1R0K68?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Fans
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001R1RXUG/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Outlet timer:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06XC7GTCN/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Tent https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01731MNJE/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Carbon filter
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01CJ5D4AG/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

4 inch duct
Can find anywhere

Jewelers loop (super important)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00K0BGNNC?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

To dry your buds
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01GXHQIKO?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Surge protectors and ext cords
Find anywhere

Inline fans
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01M7S46YZ?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Soil probe

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B017GQ9VVY/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A few other things I got locally from grow shops. Quality seeds are important. Greenpointseeds.com is always having bomb sales, ship from Colorado, and are top quality. Soil from local grow shops but can also buy from online. I went cheaper on light, but I wouldn't do that again. Get good quality lights.

this

3. Knife Sharpening Stone Combination Dual Sided Grit With Base for Sharpening and Polishing Tool with Non Slip Base for Kitchen Knives, Hunting Knives, Pocket Knives and Tool Blades (400/1000) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H38Y3GL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_D5dzDbP2PQNX3
   
   
4. Lansky Puck - Dual Grit Multi-Purpose Sharpener - Blade & Tool Sharpener https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000B8FW0Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.5dzDbXZ9RWB2
   
   
5. Nicholson 06706N Axe File, 8-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006DWT7HG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Q6dzDbFGRVZVW
   
   I just copied what I saw in a wranglerstar YouTube vid. I purchased these three items and they will be my dedicated axe sharpening devices.

I like to leverage the body contact side of things, as such the bottom part of the harden weasel is probably the most unusual one I have for mine.

Fluorescent tubes are also quite fun as well.

I normally clip off the pin, use a metal file to file it as flush as I can, and glue a rare earth magnet to the back using E6000 glue. The glue you can get at any craft store. You should be able to get the magnets there too. Depending on how many you want to make though these ones are probably a better deal.

I use this one. It’s actually $8 now.
yoyomax Soil Test Kit pH Moisture... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HP4FGYG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Is the soil dry below the surface? Like 1-2 inches down? I had a really hard time figuring out when to water when I first started. I purchased a moisture meter which helped a ton! I then only watered once the meter read dry. =)

They are not super accurate but will help you decide if you should water or not. If it still shows moist let it go.

http://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Indoor-Outdoor-Moisture-Hygrometer/dp/B00CTPXXEE/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1462211511&sr=8-5&keywords=moisture+meter

For most garden plants, the best watering strategy is to water deeply and infrequently. This means soaking the ground enough that the water gets down past a few inches to the root level. If you do this your plants will only need to be watered about once or twice a week.

Adding a few inches of mulch around the plant base can do wonders as well to regulate the soil temperature, keep weeds out, and also keep the water in the soil from evaporating.

Lastly, you can easily test the moisture, pH, and how much sun your plants get with one of these handy meters:

Atree Soil pH Meter, 3-in-1 Soil Tester Kits with Moisture,Light and PH Test for Garden, Farm, Lawn, Indoor & Outdoor (No Battery Needed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R4RPS54/

1. This is to accelerate the air time I need for the answer to the riddle to get through all the school work stress and have a relaxing fun night doing homework
   
   
2. Just like swiffer pads to clean the floor, but for all those girly emergencies lol
   
   
3. Well, every wizard apprendice needs to have one of these to be recognized as one
   
   
4. I'd like to believe that this is a modern school, so this will just help me keep all my magic spells in place and help me google anything that I forget
   
   Edit (sorry forgot to include this one)- 5. portable and easy to dig anywhere I need to hide my potions in handy spots in case I get in trouble
   
   Bonus PointsMultipurpose serve as a cape, nap time, keeps me warm, I can sit on it under a tree

Yup, those are the ones. THIS is what I ordered. They seemed cheaply made to me until I tried them out on some leaves and paper. They are super sharp and smooth.

How do you sharpen? I use one of these and it's clearly not working

Of course. I went light on the original post as I wasn't sure where the interest level was.

I used a Pi Zero W, and coded it in python. I ordered the probes off of Amazon (these ones). I think this github link should do the trick for the code. I am NOT a professional coder by training or proffession, so I am under no illusions about the optimal nature of my code.

https://github.com/subneutrino/moisture-code

I am using VNC to be able to check the status of the script in the evenings and on the weekend, when access to my classroom is far less convenient.

I had a difficult time with the script locking up, but it turned out the problem was exception handling, particularly tweeting when my school crappy wifi was being stupid.

Let me know if I've left anything out.

The guy in the video used this tool to make plugs from his own lawn. Getting healthy grass and transplanting it to the thin areas.


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CSXJR6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0HbtzbQC3AT1Z

If you don’t already have one I would highly recommend a soil tester to measure how moist the soil is. I always thought “oh it’s been over a week it should be time to water again/top of the soil feels dry enough” and had fungus gnats on several plants! Now I can quickly test the soil before watering and am surprised at how moist the soil stays in my house. I’ve cut way back on how often I water and my plants are much happier!

This is the one I got

If you're doing soil...you want a soil PH measurement tool like THIS

I use the brush in this set. It is super soft and gets all the dust/dirt off my plants. Sometimes, i use the empty water container to blow air to the hard-to-reach spots. It also has tiny tools you can use when repotting small plants. 😊

DON'T TAKE AN ANIMAL TO VAN DWELL. Seriously, find someone to watch it. It will cause you major problems. What are you going to do with a cat 90% of the time? You can't leave it in the rig on a hot day.

First priority one everything has to be small to tiny. Simplify as much as possible.

Roof box - I like it. Can be a great way to add more storage.

Those setups seem neat but if you can cook at the rear hatch couldn't you cook anywhere? We just have small stadium chairs and cook outside the van on the ground. Like these:
https://kelty.com/lowdown-chair/

I'm using a butane and propane stove right now.
https://www.amazon.com/GS-3400P-Portable-Backpacking-Emergency-Preparedness/dp/B01HQRD8EO
Pretty cheap and good options for fuel. Also fairly compact and well packaged.

We also have a MSR Windburner Stove - good for fast and easy hot drinks. Most expensive fuel you can use though.

For water I find just do crystal geyser 1 gallon jugs are simple, disposable and easy to replace.

A poo kit is critical, for me that includes a folding shovel for digging cat holes when boodocked.
https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Gorge-Folding-Shovel-22-41578/dp/B000WZCSTO

I like my rig to have an inflator kit and tire chains.

Leveling blocks are worth the space to me. We carry 4 which gives me 3 leveling options.
https://www.amazon.com/Camco-44505-Leveling-Blocks-pack/dp/B00480BWBE

You'll need a dishset and pots. I like vacuum mug for drink ware.

I'm a big fan on dedicated headlamps next to each persons sleep spot.

I like power bricks for cell phone charging.

I use this green velcro, you just cut the length you need and it sticks to itself and is gentler on plants than wire and easier to remove than tape.

What support I use depends on the plant and how I want it to look.

Get one of these and let it tell you when to water


Atree Soil pH Meter, 3-in-1 Soil Tester Kits with Moisture,Light and PH Test for Garden, Farm, Lawn, Indoor & Outdoor (No Battery Needed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R4RPS54/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NXhWDbDR66J4B

Fiskar cultivating fork

We got one a couple months back and it's awesome.

The shipping weight of the thing is 2.3 pounds. A solid folding entrenching tool/hammer combo like this one weighs 2.2 pounds. If all that garbage together only weighs 2? Then I'm guessing it is a piece of hot poop.

Husqvarna 576926301 13" Wooden Hatchet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HC077GQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_L-qZzbR5HJ03G

Get a small duffel bag. Put the following inside and never ever take them out or use them unless it's an emergency or you're inspecting/replacing items. Knowing some tribal knowledge is quaint, but you will increase your chances of survival if you have the proper tools ready to go.

Leatherman, duct tape, flashlight (without batteries), a sharp knife (something like this), a zippo with spare fluid, candles, a small fishing kit with collapsible rod, folding shovel, emergency/survival blanket, poncho and ultralight tarp, bandannas, sunscreen, blistex, insect repellent/citronella candles, first aid kit, toilet paper, hand crank radio (or something fancier), gloves (something to this effect), water kits (something fancy, or a charcoal filter and boiled water), broken in boots with extra socks. Fill the remaining space with beef jerky (yum!).

And don't forget your towel. Oh, and depending on your tastes, a small handgun with a lot of bullets. If you can pull off a scoped rifle, do it. When the zombie apocalypse hits, I will kill you if you try and steal my beef jerky. And for fucks sake, learn how to use the guns properly and effectively before the zombies come.

I'm sure I've missed some items. Any suggestions?

Edit: Be really damn good with a compass and a map. Otherwise, get a GPS unit or a phone with GPS capabilities and a fail-proof way to recharge them. Knowing where you are is half the battle.

I got this one on amazon.

This is the one that I have. You only need one for all your plants; you’ll just need to clean it regularly. The instructions say to wash it after every use but that’s a little much for me so I wipe mine between plants and wash it once I’ve checked them all. Stick the prongs down to where the roots are and it’ll immediately tell you the state of the soil. I have noticed though that sometimes the reading won’t update but a quick wash always fixes it.

Most likely some kind of lacquer or varnish.

Get an axe file (like this one) and a Lansky puck. You can find a lot of great tutorials on how to sharpen an axe on youtube.

Grab em while they're hot.

These are by far the best shears I have ever used. They are worth their weight in gold.


http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00JSYLY1I/ref=pd_aw_sim_86_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=41rVWOUmY7L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL100_SR100%2C100_&refRID=0NHV2HZ35ENEV2TC5KK3

Get a Husqvarna . But if that's a BATL location they should have some cheap ones for sale. Otherwise... Go to BATL.

http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-22-41578-Gorge-Folding-Shovel/dp/B000WZCSTO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407413614&sr=8-2&keywords=folding+shovel

For those interested. Doesn't have the blade or serrated edge. Or the wire cutters now that I think about it... Still cool though...

Two choices:

1. Plant rye in October. In May, kill the rye and plant Bermuda. Between now and October, water to encourage weed growth, and spray glyphosate every 3 weeks.
   
2. Plant Bermuda no later than the end of August. This carries a risk that the grass won't have long enough to establish before temps go below 60. Make sure not to let the soil dry out until the grass is normal height. (See instructions here, particularly step 2.)
   
   It looks like the area with the grass still on it may be a bit of a slope. If that's the case, you're probably better off not completely removing the existing grass, to prevent erosion. Make sure it's dead, then rake it so that the seed can contact the ground. You can physically aerate if you want--you can use a fork for that. After seeding, cover the area with 1/4" of compost. If I'm reading the pic wrong and it's flat, you can remove the grass using a hoe. (Here's a cheap but decent small one that would get the job done if you don't mind working on your hands and knees).
   
   Edit: You could do #2 now, and if that doesn't work out, use #1 (minus the repeated weed killing) as a backup plan.

I just bought the one from this comment: I use this one. It’s actually $8 now. yoyomax Soil Test Kit pH Moisture... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HP4FGYG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Be careful with using wire twist ties like that for plant staking since they do not have any give. Ideally want to use something like this that has a bit of stretch to it otherwise make sure the tie is loose enough to allow for growth.

http://www.amazon.com/Thick-Stretch-Plant-Garden-Green/dp/B00DG75DS8

Congrats on the fruit, peppers are by far my favorite thing to grow.

Why waste your time looking for a toilet when you can dig one yourself?

https://www.amazon.ca/Gerber-22-41578-Gorge-Folding-Shovel/dp/B000WZCSTO

This stake puller is a game changer for getting rebar out of the playa. It uses simple leverage to instantly pop the rebar right out of the ground, no super strength required, no cut hands, no pulled shoulder muscles, no hassle. We've used one of these for years and it was the best 60 bucks our camp ever spent.

> e

Awesome, any recommendation on a soil test kit? something like this? https://www.amazon.com/MoonCity-Moisture-acidity-Gardener-outdoors/dp/B017GQ9VVY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1473276406&sr=8-2&keywords=soil+test

any sort of article or process to follow after this on what to do? sorry I am pretty inexperienced in this field.

I use this to sharpen my mower blade since I have a Dremel I bought cheap from slickdeals. : https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-A679-02-Attachment-Sharpening-Gardening/dp/B003BIFMK6/ref=asc_df_B003BIFMK6/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=242081228138&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15613152371212821961&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9060286&hvtargid=pla-439773682260&psc=1

Takes a couple of run up and down the blade to get the rust off and sharpens it clean. I also sharpen my other garden blades with this kit. It's really useful and quick and it's idiot proof with a guard at an angle, so it's pretty hard to mess up and sharpen too much. If you like to do detail works, the Dremel is a great tool for other stuff too.

The Simple Grow Solution is concentrated. The instruction tells you to put a couple of oz into a hose sprayer can and attach it to the hose and you are good to go. I bought this can: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0071D0EZK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

So far, I have done the Aerating Soil Loosener on Monday, watered it, then Milo on Wednesdays(today), watered it, I'll use the Humic Fulvic Acid tomorrow. I'll post results in a week. Hopefully it works!

Atree Soil pH Meter, 3-in-1 Soil Tester Kits with Moisture,Light and PH Test for Garden, Farm, Lawn, Indoor & Outdoor (No Battery Needed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R4RPS54/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0tqmDb312C908

If you have a dremel, you can do this every year for a one time 15$ cost. https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-A679-02-Attachment-Sharpening-Gardening/dp/B003BIFMK6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1522671510&sr=8-3&keywords=dremel+sharpening+kit&dpID=41sEgniNHZL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

If you want to grow bermuda in the back, the tree has got to go. Shade = bermuda death. Otherwise, there's a couple of options that are left open to you, and are completely do-able with a little effort and time.

I've always said that if your desired yard is more than 50% crap, you need to renovate. The cost of money that you spend on selective herbicides to try to salvage the desirable grass outweighs the cost of killing off everything, and starting fresh, whether with seed or sod. Whatever you do, if you decide to go this route, don't till up the ground; when it settles in, you'll have a bumpy as hell yard, and you'll be bringing dormant weed seeds back to the surface to compete with your new seed/sod.

It's a good thing put out the pre-emergent, so you won't have to contend with nearly as many summer weeds, just make sure you put down a Fall PreM, so you won't have poa and other nasties next winter/spring.

>I would love that golf style turf and easily maintained. This mowing every other five days has gotta stop.

Hate to break it to you, but golf courses mow every day. I mow my bermuda lawn every other day during the summer, when I'm not using a growth regulator. Bermuda loves to be mowed low and often.

If you want a low-maintenance option, I'd suggest centipede. It requires low inputs (mowing, fert) grows pretty thick, like St. Aug, and is pretty affordable.

The other option you could do is get a ProPlugger, and start taking plugs from your front yard, kill off a section in the back, and transplant the plugs to the rear. Much less expensive, and you'll get the same grass type all over. I've used this method with great success in my back yard, where the dogs run all over, and I'm not ready to renovate that area, but still want some turf to take over where weeds used to be.

I like to sharpen my axes with a file this one works well. I have different axes for felling and splitting yours looks like it has a hollow or concave grind in my experience these don't make good splitting axes (sorry) but where you are just using it for kindling it should be fine. I like to sharpen my splitting axes with a more robust edge think cleaver vs fillet knife. And just sharp enough that if you push on it and slide your hand down it will cut you so pressure won't break the skin and sliding your thumb along the edge won't cut you but both will. Good luck

Edit: watch this at 17:15 he is done hanging the head and begins in on sharpening

https://www.amazon.com/CHIKAMASA-B-500SLF-Chikamasa-Scissors-B500SLF/dp/B00JSYLY1I
Chikamasa are the easiest I've used but the price tag is ugly

Depending on what type of grass you have plugs can work very well. The job is made easier with a plug puller like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Yard-Butler-SP-33-Zoysia-Plugger/dp/B000CSXJR6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495040749&sr=8-1&keywords=zoysia+plugger

A grass type that spreads aggressively through stolon growth, like bermuda, will fill in a bare spot nicely from plugs spaced a couple inches apart or even further. With that tool you can pull the bare dirt to make a hole, pull your plug, carry it over in the tool, and then push the plug right into the hole giving you a perfect fit. The tool has an ejector on it so you can eject the plug as you pull the tool out of the hole. Then push it down a bit more with your foot, toss some peat moss on top (you can put some underneath the plug as well), and toss a little bit of fertilizer (starter fert or a good sprinkling of Milorganite) on it.

You can plant plugs using your own grass

https://www.amazon.com/Yard-Butler-SP-33-Zoysia-Plugger/dp/B000CSXJR6

Also check out the bermuda bible

http://aroundtheyard.com/the-news/71-bermuda-bible.html

Oh cool. Like this:? https://www.amazon.com/ProPlugger-Garden-Planter-Weeder-Plugger/dp/B003MRTVUI/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=grass+pro+plugger&qid=1550861650&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Get your pitchforks ready!

http://www.amazon.com/Ames-True-Temper-Manure-1838100/dp/B00002N6D2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1456935612&sr=8-4&keywords=pitchfork

There you go.

I saw this in a facebook video.
I found a similar type of product on Amazon but it's not the same.

Yeah I think especially when the plant tries to reach for light they will poke into it. There’s special plant tape available for this purpose. Check this out, it expands with the growth of the plant. https://www.amazon.com/Thick-Stretch-Plant-Garden-Green/dp/B00DG75DS8?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_2

Possibly too much fertilizer in the potting soil. I assume you have a drain hole in the bottom. Give the plant a good rinse with cool (not cold) water for 15 minutes. That should help rinse some of the salts away.

I have one of these and tend to check the pH too. The wrong pH means the plant will not get the minerals it needs.

Learn something new everyday - here's the link to their sharpening "kit". https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-A679-02-Attachment-Sharpening-Gardening/dp/B003BIFMK6

These things work very well Tolman Tool Stake-Puller with Handle #S-P https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000224WU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZK55CbWKCXBF2

Aeration just basically cuts small plugs into the ground to allow water and nutrients into the root area...however, living in Florida, you likely have very sandy soil which water drains through very quickly.
I think raking will do it just fine and if you want to do plugs, you can buy sheet sod and a plug cutter that will cut the dirt plug out and allow you to cut a plug for the hole from the sod sheet. Precut plugs are so much more expensive.
Something like this is needed (just an example, there are cheaper options) https://www.amazon.com/Yard-Butler-Augustine-Centipede-SP-33/dp/B000CSXJR6 will work for dirt and sod and allow for a perfect drop-in

Am I going to actively be Ph testing the soil?

Would this be a waste of a purchase?

https://www.amazon.com/MoonCity-Moisture-acidity-Gardener-outdoors/dp/B017GQ9VVY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1491847542&sr=8-3&keywords=ph+test+garden

Sorry for all the questions.

Hey there!

Looks like you're too awesome at growing plant matter, check out a few solutions so it doesnt go it waste.
https://www.marijuanaventure.com/comparing-common-methods-supporting-plants/

Stake it up! (What I have done in the past with Sour OG that grew over 10 feet tall...indoors)

• go for plastic coated metal ones as they won't harbor critters like the bamboo ones - go for the 4 or 6 footers
  https://jet.com/product/detail/08824a0b9cb3411091a830e1bfa96225?jcmp=pla:ggl:NJ_dur_Cwin_Patio_Garden_a2:Patio_Garden_Landscaping_Lawn_Care_Stakes_Supports_Markers_a2:na:PLA_786356829_43563555520_pla-322477217235:na:na:na:2&code=PLA15&pid=kenshoo_int&c=786356829&is_retargeting=true&clickid=a9d07053-d4b6-4d83-853a-975e421b8abb
  
• buy the wider velcro strips
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005755YSQ/ref=asc_df_B005755YSQ5129446/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=394997&creativeASIN=B005755YSQ&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198097826602&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13420553475577930008&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9005556&hvtargid=pla-318772290950
  
  
• put the stakes around the perimeters of the plants and widen those girls out and open up the middle.
  
• I dont usually recommend pruning this late in the game, but perhaps some of the smaller branches could go for you.
  
• the stakes will likely break some roots going in, but it won't hurt the yield in any measurable way unless you stake right next to the stalk (within 4 to 5 inches is the no no zone).
  
  
  
  
  
  

I'm skeptical about any device that claims to tell you 'fertilizer level' of soil. Moisture level, sure, that's dynamic, something you can monitor, and actionable. Sunlight, ok, you can monitor it, it does change due to weather, not a whole lot you can do outside though. Fertilizer level? Not sure what that even means, sounds like bullshit(ha! I didn't even mean to do that) to me . Let me expand. There are 3 primary macro-nutrients that plants get from soil. Nitrogen, Potassium, Phosphorus. As far as I am aware there are no sensors that passively monitor these levels, or at least inexpensive sensors. To check these levels, there are test kits, but these are active tests, not something a probe can tell you.

You can measure pH, but this isn't something that is a dynamic feature of your soil. You can adjust it, but its something you would do before planting not throughout the season. Don't discount pH, as the soil acidity does affect what plants grow well in your soil, but it's not a data point that you need to monitor on a daily basis.

I'm planning on installing a smart sprinkler controller this spring. I'm probably going to go with Rachio or Rain Machine but there are a couple others which caught my eye. One is Netro, the other is Spruce. Both work with remote soil monitors. They're interesting, but I haven't found any real good reviews of these that don't look like they're just trying to sell the product.

If you're looking to roll your own, you can start with an [inexpensive set of moisture sensors] (https://www.amazon.com/XCSOURCE-Moisture-Automatic-Watering-TE215/dp/B00ZR3B60I/ref=pd_sbs_107_8?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00ZR3B60I&pd_rd_r=A3PXV4X97W1JT9AM8Y7J&pd_rd_w=Tpf3Q&pd_rd_wg=pHh9j&psc=1&refRID=A3PXV4X97W1JT9AM8Y7J) and use a Arduino or pi to monitor them. I'd probably use some PVC parts to build enclosures & wiring channels. 1" PVC tube with endcaps & some hotglue seems like it could make a solid enclosure for those probes. You could then write something to report and alert on the data you gather, integrate with IFTTT or smartthings... however you want to go.

There is only one type of Zoysia that can be seeded in that is Zenith I believe. Every other one is sod/plugs.

I would just plug it if the holes aren't too large or you aren't impatient. I have Empire Zoysia that has been established for about 7 years and it's near indestructible besides our dog who has dug it up here and there. But every year I can repair it easily.

Any of those dug up spots or spots that for some reason weakened, I use a sod plugger. What I do is take it from the healthiest most dense part of the lawn in the growing season and put it in the bare spots. Then I keep it watered like new sod for 2 weeks or so. During the dead of summer is not good though. Mid June is probably the latest.

The holes left from the plugger are undetectable after a week or 2 of growth. I fill the holes with just some compost and soil I pulled with the plugger. With the transplanted area, I use the tool to make the holes, salvage soil/sand from it, mix it with compost and push the plugs in on top. I will also spot add liquid fert (like miracle grow for lawns) just to kick start it's growth to establish much faster. It does create a greener spot but that will dissipate.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MRTVUI/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_pgcQAbKFT595X - That's the plugger I use.

Good luck!

This one is an example:
https://www.amazon.com/Yard-Butler-Augustine-Centipede-SP-33/dp/B000CSXJR6/ref=sr_1_1?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1520886199&sr=1-1&keywords=lawn+butler+plugger

I'm going to use one this summer if/when my bermuda is strong, and fill in some spots.

I just don't understand why people try to take care of onions with chems when the solution is so
simple. I guess most people haven't heard about this.

I use this soil moisture sensor meter:
https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Indoor-Outdoor-Moisture-Hygrometer/dp/B00CTPXXEE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1481057521&sr=8-4&keywords=Soil+moisture+meter

Perhaps OP could use a moisture meter?

I'm in Clayton. Had similar results to you OP. Seeded on 10/5 with GCI TTTF blend, but had bad seed to soil contact in some areas. I did a second reseed yesterday. Spread the seed with a rotary spreader, mixed it in to the dirt with a garden weasel cultivator (linked below), then covered with a thin layer of topsoil. This upcoming week looks like great weather for seed germination in our area.

Garden Weasel Cultivator - Break Up Soil, Detachable Tines, Long Handle, 54.5" Long https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002ECYRH4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_HyCTDb4VYSZJ9

Edit: KBG does terribly in our climate.

Thanks. I have this one that hopefully will work. Doesn't seem angled though

Nicholson 06706N Axe File, 8-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006DWT7HG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_MB6QCbRT6QF3G

Not the OP. But I take mine off the mower every few weeks, bench vise, dremel with the right bits.

https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-A679-02-Attachment-Sharpening-Gardening/dp/B003BIFMK6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525892982&sr=8-1&keywords=dremel+chainsaw&dpID=41sEgniNHZL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Ever since switching from the bagged cactus mixes, I have yet to lose any of my babies to rot. I use this handy moisture meter and water when they're dry. During the hot summer days, I water my plants almost every day (except for the dormant ones)

My Github

I've modded my temp code and put that up there with the soil moisture, it needs some work, I think I can get the same output with much less code, will look into it another day :)

Sounds like were in a the same boat, fairly new myself, did some C+ at college, decided I wanted to teach myself a new language, python was the winner!

I tend to the use MCP3008 for AI, got some other chips but the MCP3008 is striaght forward to use and relatively cheap, breadboard friendly chips for <£.150 on RS.

I bought these moisture sensors, I'm using soil for some Autos at the minute and have two of these stacked in a 11l pot, they have a AO & DO, even an LED to indicate when the moisture has gone, this call also be adjusted to come on earlier or later, brilliant things for £1 each :).

I've not done much in terms of a web based front end, I imagine that's the best bit, an easy way to see all of your data in chart form!
Do you use PHP or HTML?

How did you build the moisture sensors, that sounds ace! Your setup sounds cool! It's nice to meet another 420pi-man.

Here's the link to it! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01D88DLB0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A youtube channel I like called Succulents and Sunshine recommended it, and honestly it's probably the best $5 I've ever spent.

I had been watering pretty much daily, just enough to keep the top layer of soil slightly damp to the touch. Once I moved the largest plant to it's current container, I stuck one of these in there: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R4RPS54/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


With that in there, I kept it towards the top of the green bar, now I'm watering it just to keep it in the middle, usually every other day.

Looking great! Can you share any tips on watering? I'll be doing my first grow in Jan and don't want to over or under water. I'll be using these to monitor soil moisture.

Look no further than these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JSYLY1I/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Japanese Grape Pruners. First trim a few months ago using them and won't bother with anything else.

アマゾンに
なぜかオススメ
てつのおの

https://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B00HC077GQ/