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While there may be a few outliers who find yardwork relaxing, it’s safe to say that most people don’t like doing it. It’s time-consuming and exhausting. But it’s also an important part of keeping your garden or lawn healthy and looking their best.
The good news is, there are ways to make the work easier (and maybe even enjoyable). Here are 9 tips to get you started …
1. Get The Right Equipment
Before you start any job, make sure you have everything you need to get it done. Depending on the level of yardwork you need to do, this may include standard rakes, pole saws, trimmers, hedgers, and even chainsaws.
Having the right tools for the job can make all the difference. Invest in quality outdoor power equipment and tools and make sure to keep it well serviced and cared for. This will maximize the life of your equipment and help you get through your yardwork checklist more quickly.
2. Go Cordless
Cordless outdoor equipment can make working in your yard much easier and more convenient. This is especially true for larger yards where the need for extension cords can be problematic.
Cordless tools also produce less noise, cost less over the life of the tool with less maintenance and lower operating costs, and they’re better for the environment.
3. Start Early
It’s best to start tackling yardwork in early spring. That way you’ll be able to identify any problems and address them before they spread or worsen. Start with the basics like pruning, weeding, and mulching. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to get the bigger tasks done when the weather starts to warm up.
On the days you’re doing yardwork, you also want to start early in the day when temperatures and humidity are lower. Starting early will also help you avoid the hottest parts of the day when you’re more likely to overheat or become dehydrated.
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4. Don’t Overexert Yourself
Divide your yardwork into smaller tasks, such as mowing, trimming, weeding, and cleaning up. This will make the work more manageable and prevent burnout.
You also want to make sure you don't overexert your body. When lifting heavy objects, remember to keep a good posture and lift with your legs. Use carts and wheelbarrows whenever they’re needed, and buy extendable tools and ladders to help with hard-to-reach tasks like tree trimming and hedging.
5. Take Breaks
Yardwork can be stressful, so don’t forget to take breaks. Step away from your work for a few minutes to grab a drink or just to stretch your legs. Don’t forget to have a seat if you need one. And remember to have a good meal.
While this may extend the amount of time your yardwork takes, taking care of yourself will make the process much less burdensome.
7. Choose The Right Plants
When landscaping your yard, consider choosing plants that require less maintenance. This means planting perennials and ground cover, as opposed to annuals that need to be replanted every year. Sticking to species of trees and plants that are native to your location can also help reduce the amount of yardwork you need to do.
6. Dress For The Job
Wear long, light-colored clothing to help keep you cool and protect you from scrapes and scratches. Wear gloves to protect your hands, as well as closed-toe shoes to protect your feet. And don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin.
8. Don’t Do It All Yourself
Make use of family and friends to help with the heavier tasks. Having someone to help you can make the work much less tedious and it can speed up the amount of time it takes.
To make everything move even faster, turn up the tunes to distract you from the work.
9. Consider Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Technology is always advancing. Indoors, you can now take advantage of smart robot vacuums to keep your house clean and fresh. But did you know that you can also buy AI lawnmowers?
These are robotic lawnmowers that will mow your lawn while you sit back and relax. Many of these also have GPS and safety features that help keep your lawn well-manicured and safe.
Yardwork may never be fun but it also doesn’t need to be stressful. From using cordless equipment to investing in an AI mower, these tips will help make your yardwork easier and more enjoyable.
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