When we moved into our home ten years ago with three boys aged 7, 5, and 3, gardening took a backseat to soccer games and playground visits. The tools? They got tossed wherever they fit.
Fast forward to today, and I’m finally getting serious about gardening. But here’s the thing – you can’t really garden well when you can’t find your tools (or when they’re rusty because they got left out in the rain… again). After years of chaos and one too many rushed clean-ups, I’ve finally figured out some storage solutions that actually work.
Wall Storage That Makes Sense
Wall storage is a great way to get tools off surfaces and arranged in a way you can see them (and find them). Here are some of my favorite methods.
Pegboard
Remember those pegboards in your dad’s garage? Turns out they’re pretty genius for garden tools too. After finding my favorite trowel in the ball bin for the third time (thanks, boys), I finally installed a pegboard system in our shed last spring. Game changer! Everything’s visible, which means no more buying duplicate tools because I couldn’t find them (please tell me I’m not the only one who’s done this!).
Track Systems
If you’re dealing with heavier tools (like my collection of shovels and rakes), track systems are seriously worth considering. They’re a bit of an investment, but they’re sturdy enough to handle the weight and can be adjusted as your garden needs change.
Mobile Solutions (Because Gardens Aren’t Small)
The Cart That Changed Everything
I used to lug tools back and forth across the yard (or get my boys to help me) until I discovered the dedicated garden cart. Look for one with:
- Different-sized sections
- Wheels that can handle your terrain (our yard is very bumpy with tree roots and garden bed edges)
- Something weather-resistant (learned this one the hard way!)
Other DIY Options That Actually Work
Not ready to splurge on a fancy cart? I get it! Here’s what worked for me before I upgraded:
- An old radio flyer wagon
- Small bins from the dollar store for hand tools
- A piece of plywood across one end for a work surface
Or. . . use a wheelbarrow that can handle a heavy load but beware that sometimes balancing an uneven load can be a problem.
Creative Storage (Because Why Not?)
Upcycled Solutions That Actually Work
Let’s talk about storage ideas that don’t require a trip to the garden center (because between team sports fees and garden supplies, we’ve spent enough!). Here’s what’s working in our garden:
- Galvanized metal buckets from Target’s dollar spot are perfect for long-handled tools and they look surprisingly cute
- Old kitchen utensil crocks work great for smaller hand tools, so do empty metal coffee cans
- Rinsed out peanut butter or large mayonnaise jars can hold garden markers and plant tags
- Metal filing baskets (you know, the ones that used to hold office papers?) are fantastic for storing rolls of garden twine and plant ties
Keeping It All Working
Here’s what I’ve learned about maintenance:
- Clean tools before storing (future you will thank you)
- Check for rust regularly (especially after the kids “help” with washing the tools off)
- Give your storage system a seasonal once-over
- Rearrange as needed (because our garden needs change over time!)
Remember, the perfect storage system is the one that works for YOU. Start small, see what works, and adjust as you go. Trust me, your future self will be so grateful when everything has its place!