From Backyard to Bounty: The Essential Tools Our Urban Farmers Swear By

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If you’re ready to turn your yard into a thriving, food-producing landscape (aka Foodscape), having the right tools makes all the difference. At Yard to Fork, our Urban Farmers maintain edible gardens every single day—and they don’t leave their vehicle without these go-to essentials. Whether you're just getting started or growing for your whole family, these are the tools we trust to make every foodscape flourish.

The best part? You can get them delivered straight to your door. We’ve linked our favorite picks from trusted brands we use ourselves that are also available on Amazon.

1. Hori Hori Garden Knife


Part trowel, part knife, part weeder—this tool does it all. From digging and transplanting to slicing roots and popping out weeds, it’s the MVP of our toolkits.

Why we love it:

  • Cuts through tough soil with ease

  • Built-in depth markers for planting

  • Has a serrated edge for cutting through roots and a straight edge for harvesting lettuce

2. Pruning Shears

Good shears are essential for healthy plants. We use these to trim herbs, shape fruit trees, and clean up garden beds without damaging stems.

Why we love it:

  • Makes clean, precise cuts

  • Easy on the hands, even with lots of pruning

  • Built to last, even in humid conditions

3. Plant Tying Machine
 As fruits become heavier and the plants seems to be taking over pathways, it’s helpful to have a tool to help guide the vines up trellises rather than out of the garden beds. That’s exactly what this 

Why we love it:

  • Easily use with one hand

  • Strong, tying material to hold up heavy branches/vines

  • Wide mouth to accommodate the largest branches

BONUS: Electric Mason Jar Vacuum Sealer


 When your garden is pumping out produce, preserving it quickly makes all the difference. This electric sealer helps you lock in freshness—fast.

Why we love it:

  • No boiling water or special lids required

  • Works with standard and wide mouth mason jars

  • Seals jars in seconds

Ready to Build Your Backyard Tool Kit?

These are the tools we bring to every coaching session, seasonal refresh, and maintenance visit—because they make foodscaping faster, more efficient, and just plain easier. Whether you're transforming a backyard or managing a balcony garden, starting with the right tools sets you up for success.

Have a favorite tool you swear by? Tag us on Instagram @yardtoforklandscapes or comment below and show us what’s in your garden bag.