Handy Hand Truck

 Tuesday, May 20, 2014

For years now I have used a hand truck when deliveries arrive at the flower farm. Long ago I learned about mechanical advantage and I respected easier means of lifting and moving heavy objects. A truckload of a hundred 3.8 cubic foot bales of potting mix, for example, starts out nicely but by bale number 5 you wish you were in a different place.

Hand trucks are available at all the box stores and are available for about $40. I always spring for a new set of wheels right from the beginning because from experience I find that the inflatable type just don't hold up and I always find this out on the day a tire is pancake flat and I have lots to move. The new tires with a solid core will last longer than me and cost about $20 a piece extra. It's kind of a pain getting the cap nut off to replace them but it's worth it.

Some people add a piece of pressure treated plywood to the bottom to enlarge the lift shelf. I have never done that but I have seen it done. When I am using the truck for awkward items I use a couple bungie cords to secure whatever I am moving. 

This might seem like an odd gift to buy for a gardening friend but I guarantee it will be well appreciated. In the meantime, think of yourself and what you lift and carry in the course of a summertime of gardening. It's worth it! And it works with moving big clumps of daylilies too!

George Africa

The Vermont Gardener

Vermont Flower Farm

Kneeling

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

A beautiful morning here on the mountain. 40.1°, clear sky, windless, with sights and sounds that please this early morning walker. Karl the Wonder Dog and I made it halfway to Peacham Pond. We jumped the doe deer with last year's twins and it made me wonder if she will give birth again in early June.

The loons called from the reservoir as we walked along and there was an abundance of bird songs and also hyperactive red squirrels for morning entertainment. Karl's tail wagged as fast as his nose sniffed and he was reluctant to return to the house but I made him do an about-face.

Some people mostly kneel at church but gardeners kneel in their gardens. As we age, the kneeling part becomes more of a chore and assistance is often welcomed. I bought this reversible seat/kneeling stool years ago and just last year had to  replace the wooden seat. I used a piece of pressure treated decking material this time as I leave it outside wherever I am working. Like it or not, some days a job has to be left for another day or two as my creaky body needs rest.

This is a handy piece of equipment and worth the price. I don't know where they are manufactured--no doubt someplace in Asia but give it a thought for yourself or a friend. Once you use one you'll wish you had it a long time ago.

Best gardening wishes!

George Africa

The Vermont Gardener