Cool tools

Today’s independent garden centers fight an ongoing—and, generally, a losing—battle with mass merchants in the tool realm. You have to be on the lookout for the unique—or, at least, the unusual—tool that can fetch decent margins while marking your store as the place for clever items that will get the job done. Here are five examples of tools that have sellable traits that can help the independents gain separation from the “bad” guys.

What is it? The U CAN Brand Watering System. Why should you sell it? This 2-gallon plant irrigation device is your basic “do-it-all” watering can. It houses fertilizer that can be mixed with the water during application, has a built-in measuring spoon and cup, has an ergonomic design for perfect balance, can store garden gloves and features a removable sprinkler rose. For good measure, it’s domestically made with post-consumer recycled plastic. Where to find it? www.theucanbrand.com
 

What is it? The HozeAround from Cooley Wire Products Mfg. Why should you sell it?  The HozeAround features a ring that keeps a watering hose in place to help your customers go around—not through—landscapes as they water plants. The ring is 10 inches off the ground and the base sinks 18 inches into the ground. Where to find it? www.hozearound.com

 

What is it? The Weed Wand herbicide applicator. Why should you sell it? The Weed Wand is a plastic tube with a sponge valve on the end. Fill the tube with a systemic herbicide and touch the weeds with the end. It uses just enough, and not too much, so it protects the environment. It also does not leave those big yellow spots on your lawn that sprayers do. Where to find it? www.weedwands.com
 

What is it? The Arnold Power Rake from MTD. Why should you sell it? The Power Rake is a multi-purpose mower blade that offers landscapers, gardeners and DIYers an affordable and easy-to-use lawn tool that dethatches, rakes, scalps and more. Where to find it? www.mtdparts.com
 

What is it? The Gator Grabber from Radius Garden. Why should you sell it? The Radius Gator Grabber is a back-saving yard and garden clean-up tool with adjustable powder-coated steel shafts. Tooth-lined nylon-fiber jaws grab and hold anything from leaves to litter to firewood. It’s great for mixing compost, too. Where to find it? www.radiusgarden.com