Types of Manual Agricultural Tools and Their Uses

Pick axe

The pick axe is used for:

• Preparing the soil for farming by digging deep and turning the soil, as well as breaking up clods.
• Removing large stones from the soil.
• Digging irrigation channels.

Shovel

The shovel is used for:

• Surface digging, soil turning, and collecting it.
• Creating agricultural rows or planting beds.
• Digging small channels.

There are two common types of shovels:

• Triangle-shaped shovel.
• Square-shaped shovel.

Rake

The rake is used for:

• Cleaning the soil from small stones, weeds, and crop residues.
• Leveling the soil after it has been turned.
• Breaking up clods and smoothing the soil.

Hoe

The hoe is used for:

• Cultivating the soil around plants to remove weeds.
• Uprooting root vegetables and tubers after they have been watered.

Fork

The fork is used for:

• Digging non-hardened soil by pressing its blade into the ground with the foot.
• Uprooting root vegetables and tubers after they have been watered.

Basket

The basket is used for:

• Transporting soil, fertilizer, or other materials from one place to another nearby.

Wheelbarrow

The wheelbarrow is used for:

• Transporting soil, fertilizer, agricultural tools, and waste from one place to another within the garden or farm.

Water Sprayer

The water sprayer is used for:

• Gentle watering of seeds and plants.

It is important to know how to choose the appropriate tool and use it at the right time and in the proper manner because:

• It helps to accomplish work efficiently with minimal effort.

How to Maintain Agricultural Tools:

• Clean them after each use.
• Regularly maintain them to keep them in good working condition and avoid accidents due to any malfunctions.

Using Manual Agricultural Tools Correctly and Safely:

Things to consider when using agricultural tools:

• Regular maintenance and ensuring they are in good condition.
• Maintain a distance between you and your colleagues while working.
• Focus on the point where the tool will strike while being aware of those around you.
• Wear suitable footwear, especially when using the mattock.
• Do not scatter tools at the work site; place each tool in its designated location.
• After finishing work, clean the tools and return them to their designated places.