This month, the focus is on getting prepared for Spring. And that means getting the proper tools to do a proper job.

• Shovel: The most important tool of the trade.
• Rake: A good leaf rake will have you "raking in the Gold"...Black Gold that is. Also known as a compost pile, your dead grass clippings can be mixed with Oak leaves, Black Kow cow manure, and most any other organic material that will break down. Upon decomposition, Black Gold can be used in a vegetable garden or as a top dressing around your established shrubs.
• Wheelbarrow: You'll need this to haul your Black Gold. I'm a big fan of the fiberglass kind and suggest you cut two pieces of soft pipe insulation for the ends of the handles for easy grasping.
• Lawn Mower: Usually on sale in late winter, choose a respected brand. Make it easy on yourself and buy the self-propelled kind. Ones with aluminum decks are my favorites - they won't rust! Also, mulching mowers are great.
• Edger: The icing on the cake, the frame on the picture, and only about 15 minutes of your time.
• Sturdy Broom: You'll need this after mowing to sweep up the Black Gold from sidewalks and driveways. A regular broom and a push broom is best for complete clean up.
• Blower: Only buy one with a warranty and it absolutely should be a 'low' decibel type. Get one of these and you'll be on the golf course in no time.
• Weed Whacker: There's just something about chopping down the weeds at the edge of their knees that drains you of all hostilities
• Hose-end Sprayer: This simple jar with a siphon nozzel allows you to apply water soluble lawn food as well as my numerous tonics. Routine feedings can absolutely help you get fast results. Keep an orange golf ball in your sprayer to agitate the tonic.
• Fertilizer Spreader: Buy a name brand made out of fiberglass or durable plastic. Always wash after each use and buy one with a plastic dispensing blade so it doesn't corrode.
• Hand Held Spreader: For that occasional after meal lawn dessert.
• Lawn Spikes: Wear lawn sandles strapped to your sneakers while mowing your lawn. You get great exercise and aerate your lawn at the same time.
• Hoe: Instantly remove specific weeds.
• Pump-Up Sprayer: Buy a 1 or 2-gallon plastic one and keep the pump oiled. Use this tool to spot-treat any weed outbreak.