Essential Landscaping Tools: The Ultimate Guide for Professional Landscapers

Are you planning to launch your landscaping business? It’s a good call because the market size of the landscaping industry has grown 5.3% between 2017 and 2022 and the number is expected to surge. 

Also, this industry has witnessed more growth than the administration, business support, and waste management services sectors. 

But do you know what can break or make your lawn and landscaping business? It’s the tools and equipment. 

This is why you must have professional landscaping tools ready while launching your business. After all, your customers will choose your service only based on your service, pricing, and offerings. Hence, you must give similar importance to equipment as well. 

Here, you will find the most essential tools for Landscaping Business. So, let’s get started.

Understanding Landscaping Tools: An Overview

Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade, investing in the right equipment can enhance productivity, improve the quality of your work, and reduce long-term costs. 

So, let’s understand why choosing the right tools matters and which main categories of tools you should consider for your landscaping projects.

The importance of quality tools in landscaping

Good tools are worth every penny. Here’s why:

1. They last longer. Quality tools can handle daily use without breaking down.
2. They save time. Better tools help you finish jobs faster.
3. They’re safer to use. Well-made tools reduce the risk of accidents.
4. They give better results. Your work will look more professional.
5. They save money in the long run. You won’t need to replace them as often.

Categories of landscaping tools

Landscaping tools come in different types, each serving a specific purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the essential categories to consider:

1. Power tools

Power tools are essential for heavy-duty tasks that require extra force. They include equipment like lawn mowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, and hedge trimmers. 

These tools save you time on larger jobs and make tasks like trimming, cutting, and cleanup far easier. They’re often a higher initial investment but quickly pay off in efficiency gains.

2. Hand tools

Hand tools are simple but indispensable for precision work. Shovels, rakes, pruners, and trowels help with tasks that require close attention to detail. 

These tools are easy to handle, require no power source, and are usually more affordable. They’re ideal for smaller tasks or finishing touches that power tools can’t do as accurately.

3. Maintenance and care tools

Keeping tools in good condition is necessary for a landscaping business. Items like tool sharpeners, oil, and cleaning supplies ensure your tools remain effective and safe to use. 

Regular maintenance increases the life of your equipment and maintains performance. Set aside time each week or month to inspect and care for your tools.

4. Safety gear

Safety gear is often overlooked but just as necessary. This includes gloves, safety glasses, ear protection, and durable work boots. 

Good safety gear protects you and your team from injuries, allowing you to focus on the job without unnecessary risks.

Essential Landscaping Hand Tools

Core hand tools every landscaper needs

1. Rakes

One of the essential landscaping tools is a rake. Even if you can blow your leaves, you need a rake to clean the debris at some point because the leaf blower can’t be used in certain places. There are two main types: leaf and steel rake. 

Look for a steel rake if you have to move stones. Otherwise, a normal leaf rake is fine for cleaning leaves and small sticks.

2. Shovels

A shovel is a tool that comprises a broad blade with a curving tip and a long handle. There are different types of shovels, depending on the usage.

• A handheld shovel is used for digging up weeds and plants and transplanting soil. 
• A scoop shovel helps remove large amounts of gravel, wood chips, and mulch.
• A round-point shovel easily breaks through the compacted ground.

Professionals prefer a shovel with a steel or fiberglass handle for commercial purposes.

3. Trowel

Trowels play the same role as shovels. The only difference is shovels are larger than trowels. And the shovels are too big to create a small hole to plant a seed or pry stones up from the soil. So, choosing a durable trowel with a more comfortable grip is important to complete difficult tasks. 

4. Spade

Did you just think a spade is a kind of shovel? Probably, many people think the same. Spades are different from a shovel. They have a square base and are designed to scrap hard surfaces such as concrete and sweep the debris. Only metal spades with an easy-to-grip handle can withstand tough jobs like moving gravel or concrete.

5. Wheelbarrow

This versatile tool is used to carry bulky and voluminous loads. In landscaping businesses, they are used to carry the tools to the work spot or move debris. Consider factors such as the material it is made from, the number of wheels, and the type of terrain it can easily navigate while looking to buy a wheelbarrow.

Specialized hand tools for advanced landscaping

6. Shears

Have you seen arborists using some kind of scissors to trim gardens, bushes, small branches, and stems to get a certain shape? Well, those are called shears. To cut branches up to one inch thick, you will need hand-powered pruning shears. For anything larger than this, you need electric or gas-powered shears. 

7. Lopper

This may look similar to shears, but the purpose is different. You will need a pair of long-handled pruning shears to help you reach into trees to prune the branches. 

Pruning is not the same as trimming. Pruning is done to cut unnecessary branches, whereas the latter is done to help the plant or tree grow. 

8. Tampers

Tampers are landscaping tools that help increase the density and level of sand, soil, gravel, and other materials by applying force to the surface of the material. Tampers are available as manual or power compaction tools. So, the force to be given must be delivered by hand or via a gas-burning engine.

Must-Have Landscaping Power Tools

Basic power tools for efficient landscaping

9. Lawnmower

When it comes to power landscaping tools, the first tool that comes to the list is a lawn mower. This machine comes with thin, hard, and sharp iron plates, which help mow grass or plants. The speed controls of self-propelled modes give you more control while using the mower in places with slopes. 

It comes in three main types such as lawn tractor, zero turn mower, and rear engine riding mower, and each type is used based on the requirement. 

10. Leaf blower

Imagine how much time it would take to pile up large quantities of leaves using a rake. This is why you need leaf blowers to move leaves and plant debris into a big pile without hassle. 

Check if the leaf blower has a high mph output and a large cubic feet per minute range to blow the leaves with forced air. When compared to electric models, gas-powered models are often used for commercial purposes.

11. Lawn aerator

By aerating, you allow water, oxygen, and other nutrients to flow through the soil. Also, this is one of the best landscaping tools that keeps a lawn healthy. Though you can find hand-powered lawn aerators, a gas or electric aerator is used for commercial purposes.

Advanced power tools for professional landscapers

12. Hedge trimmer

Also called a shrub trimmer or bush trimmer, this landscape equipment is used to trim, cut or prune hedges, shrubs and bushes. Since you have to hold the trimmer for a long time to do the work, it is often fatiguing. So, choose lightweight hedge trimmers with padded and ergonomic handles so that you get the comfort of holding them for a long time. 

13. Chainsaw 

To cut or trim large tree branches, you need chainsaws. Cordless chainsaws are much more user-friendly and can complete tasks quickly. While investing in one, check the weight and battery life, and safety features to prevent accidents. 

14. Weed eaters

This tool is also called a weed trimmer and weed wacker. You may wonder why a weed eater is required when you have a lawn mower. The fact is that weed eaters can easily reach places a mower can’t reach. 

Commercial weed trimmers are available in electric, 2-cycle, and 4-cycle models and have more powerful engines than those used for residential weed trimmers.

15. Fertilizing equipment

Also called a spreader, it is a machine that spills tiny spheres of fertilizer in large areas. Most probably, you will use fertilizer spreaders on lawns and agricultural grounds. To dispense liquid fertilizer, you need a pressurized sprayer to spray liquid fertilizer on plants or garden beds.

Lawn Care Equipment for Comprehensive Landscaping Services

Essential lawn maintenance tools

16. Push broom

A push broom is helpful for cleaning up sidewalks, driveways, and other surfaces post-job, giving a finished, tidy look to your worksite.

17. Foam knee pads

Foam knee pads protect the knees when planting or working close to the ground, adding comfort to long work sessions.

18. Watering can

For smaller gardens or specific plants, a watering can provides more controlled watering, especially in areas where a hose might be too strong.

Specialized equipment for lawn renovation and care

19. Snowblower

Snowblowers hold a space in the landscaping equipment list because they are helpful if your lawn care business location gets a lot of snow. In fact, during winter, you won’t have much business, so, you can easily opt for mowing lawns to clear snow.

However, if you are just starting your lawn care business, avoid investing in a snow blower because the lawn mower itself is expensive. So, when you earn profits, then buy this winter gear.

20. Route planner

Adopting a route planner is the best way to get rid of tedious route planning. Especially, when you have long-term projects, you just need a few clicks to find the best routes.

It allows the import of multiple clients’ addresses so that you can carry out your job site. If the address is alien or if you want to find shortcuts to reach your site swiftly, you need lawn care routing software like Upper Route Planner. By optimizing your routes, you will cut down travel time, and reduce operational costs as well.

21. Field management Software

Running a successful landscaping business is not a cupcake. So, you must manage multiple things, streamline operations and track your employees using reliable software. This is why it is necessary to invest in the best field management software.

This software can handle various business needs, track inventory, create invoices, manage your schedule, and a lot more things saving time and effort.

Safety Gear and Protective Equipment for Landscapers

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) essentials

Safety equipment 

Whether using hand or power tools, you need to safeguard yourself from accidental injury. Some minimum safety gear must-haves are:

• Gloves
• Eye protection
• Ear protection
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Steel-toed boots, especially while using heavy equipment

Buckets

Did you just think why buckets are added to the best landscaping tools list? Well, though they aren’t exciting landscaping tools, they hold much importance. You need buckets to carry items, dispose of waste, clean up, and more. 

Instead of buying metal buckets, go for heavy-duty plastic buckets because the former can easily rust or corrode. But buckets made of plastics can stay in shape even in wet conditions. Also, check if the bucket handle is sturdy and has an ergonomic section to help increase comfort when held.

Tool-specific safety accessories

Retractable safety knife

Useful for cutting materials like twine or rope, retractable safety knives are designed for easy storage and reduced injury risk.

Extension leads

Extension leads provide power for electric tools at worksites with limited outlets. Look for outdoor-rated, weather-resistant cords.

Twine

Twine is handy for tying plants or marking areas. Choose a durable, weather-resistant type to last in various conditions.

Along with these essential tools, you may also need the below tools for doing your job safely:

• Push broom
• Foam knee pads to plant in comfort
• Extension leads
• Watering can
• Twine for tying up plants
• Retractable safety knife
• Gardening hose
• Garden shredder
• Ladders

Choosing and Maintaining Your Landscaping Tools

Ready to buy your tools? Let’s help you make smart choices and keep your equipment in top shape. Good decisions now will save you time and money later.

Where to find landscaping equipment?

The listed landscaping tools can be easily bought in any local hardware store or online. But, it is crucial to ensure you invest in the best tools wherever you shop.

To grab the best tools at an affordable price, consider shopping at businesses that offer discounts or other shopping perks.

Moreover, you can get reliable landscaping tools at an exciting price in large stores such as Home Depot or Lowes. It’s known for its wide selection of goods, and most customers are highly satisfied with their purchases

Also, you can find an extensive selection of lawn care tools in A.M. Leonard and Grainger. They are industrial supply companies that allow their customers to shop in-store, online, or at any of their stores in North America. This is an excellent place to order the tools in bulk.

Factors to consider when purchasing landscaping tools

The tools you select affect both the quality of your work and your efficiency. Here are key factors to consider when buying landscaping tools:

• Brand quality: Look for trusted brands with good reviews. Ask other landscapers what they use and why they like those brands. 
• Warranty: A solid warranty is also important. It shows the company stands behind their products.
• Price: Price is important, but think about value too. The cheapest option isn’t always the best deal. Set a budget that lets you buy quality tools that will last. 
• Quality & durability: Invest in tools built to last; they may cost more upfront but save money over time.
• Comfort & ergonomics: Choose tools that feel comfortable for long use to reduce fatigue.
• Weight & size: Opt for tools that balance durability with easy handling.
• Power source: Select battery, gas, or electric based on the work type and frequency.
• Maintenance ease: Simpler maintenance means faster cleanup and more time saved.

Maintenance tips for longevity and performance

Keeping your tools in good condition ensures they perform well and last longer. Here’s how to maintain them effectively:

• Take time to clean your tools at the end of each day. Remove dirt and plant material. A quick wipe down prevents rust and keeps everything working well.
• Make maintenance a regular habit. Once a week, check all your tools for problems. Tighten loose parts. Look for signs of wear. Keep moving parts oiled. These small steps prevent bigger problems later.
• Change with the seasons. Before winter, give everything a deep clean. Sharpen blades and replace worn parts. If you use gas tools, drain the fuel or add a stabilizer. Get repairs done during slow seasons so you’re ready when work picks up.
• Store your tools properly to protect your investment. Keep them in a dry place off the ground. Organize them so they’re easy to find and won’t get damaged. Good storage makes your tools last longer and helps you work more efficiently.

Remember: Regular care keeps your tools working like new. It’s easier to prevent problems than fix them. When you notice something wrong, take care of it right away. Your tools are the foundation of your business – treat them well and they’ll serve you well.

Optimizing Your Landscaping Business with Upper’s Route Optimization

Running a landscaping business means visiting multiple sites each day. Getting to each site efficiently can make or break your daily schedule. That’s where Upper’s route optimization comes in to help you work smarter, not harder.

How route planning software enhances efficiency

Upper saves you precious morning time by planning your daily routes in minutes. No more struggling with maps or spending hours figuring out the best order to visit your clients. The software creates the most efficient route based on your schedule and client locations.

• You can easily add specific service times for each property. This helps you plan accurately, whether you’re doing a quick lawn mowing job or a full garden makeover.
• Upper also lets you handle last-minute changes without stress. If a client needs to reschedule, you can quickly adjust your route with a simple drag and drop.
• The real-time tracking feature keeps you and your clients informed. Your team knows exactly where to go next, and clients can get updates about when you’ll arrive. 

Integrating Upper with your landscaping tool kit

Upper becomes part of your essential business tools, just like your mowers and trimmers. Here’s how to make it work for your landscaping business:

• Start each week by importing your client addresses into Upper. You can add them all at once using a spreadsheet. 
• Include important details like gate codes or special instructions for each property.
• With just a few click, Upper helps you determine the best routes and assign them to the right crew members.
• Use the driver app to share route details with your team. Each crew member gets clear directions and client information on their phone. 
• They can also collect proof of service with photos, making billing and customer communication easier.
• Set up service zones to organize your work areas better. This helps you group nearby clients together and reduce travel time. 
• You can also track how long each job takes, helping you price your services more accurately.

Remember to update your client database in Upper as you add new properties. The software grows with your business, handling more stops and multiple crews as you expand. Think of it as a trusted partner that helps you deliver professional service to every client, every time.

Conclusion: Building Your Professional Landscaping Toolkit

All in all, you need the right lawn care equipment to carry out successful lawn care services. In fact, using the right equipment makes landscaper work more efficient and allows businesses to skyrocket by serving more clients.

Also, high-quality equipment will work more efficiently and come to a long life if maintained well. However, while investing in landscaping tools, ensure you buy only the necessary tools. 

Choosing tools from renowned brands is important because you will find replacement parts easily. Along with tools, you should also invest in software like field management software and route planners. We recommend using Upper forget to save your route planning time while performing time-sensitive lawn care projects.