Our editor has asked the garden writers to tell of their most significant implements. Since there are about 20 items that I would hate to have to without, it was a hard choice for me. But I think the thing I would miss the most is my wooden garden cart. It saves me a lot of trips and backaches. What garden tool or doohickey would yous guys hate to have to do without?

My Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde -- one end has a claw and the other end has a spade. It's lightweight and bright red. I can use it to dig, rake or scoop. It's sturdy enough to dig a hole for a 4" or 6" plant. And to top it off it was a gift from a friend who LOATHES gardening. We laugh about the fact SHE bought my best garden tool.

The name itself sounds great to me! Did you name it that Gail, or did it come with it?

Mine has to be the thin trowel that I found on a Scottish beach, it's the only one sharp enough and strong enought to use on my soil when it becomes dry. Hard to imagine it becoming dry, but it does sometimes. Just to give you some idea, I have a stainless steel rod that I hammer in to make holes for garden canes.

I need one of those Terry! In some of the beds, I have to turn this clay stuff with a sharp fork before any trowel can dent it. Doesn't it figure that the best tools are the most obscure ones.
What kind of plants do you support with canes ?

I just named it myself, Maggie. Can't remember what it was really called but do remember it said "made in England". Terry, have you seen one of these?

I can't remember seeing one Gail, but we do have all sorts of unusual gardening implements coming onto the scene. I don't use canes very often Maggie, but when I do it's usually to hold together something that is sprawling beyond it's space such as the taller Campanulas and particularly Crocosmia Lucifer at flowering time.

The best thing about a friend being so enthused about their new tools is when they get the urge to bring them over - and demonstrate them on my garden!