Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your garden. Beyond the classic spade and watering can, there are lesser-known tools that make a big difference — and many of them are available through the RCS Shopping Network's hardware and DIY partners like Builders, Build It, Brights, and Mica. Use your RCS Store Card to pick up these clever tools, spread repayments over time, and get your garden ready without paying all up front.
Below are some garden tools you might not have thought of — but that seriously raise your spring-game.
1. Border Edger / Mini Spade
Often overlooked, a border edger helps you define garden beds cleanly, keeping grass from creeping in. It’s especially useful when you want crisp lines along flower beds or pathways. Many DIY stores carry compact edging tools, sometimes even with step-on mechanisms to drive them into the soil.
Why you’ll love it: Cleaner boundaries, less weeding along edges, and a neater overall garden look.
2. Geared Pruning Set (Pruner + Lopper + Shears Kit)
Instead of buying individual cutting tools, look for a pruning kit which offers an extra mechanical advantage (gear action) for easier cuts on thicker branches. One example is the Garden Master Pruning Set at Makro for just R399.99.
This kind of kit gives you pruners for small branches, a lopper for mid-sized limbs, and shears for hedges — all in one set.
3. Lightweight Grass Trimmer / Weed Cutter
For edges, tight spaces, or patches too awkward for a mower, a small grass trimmer is a game-changer. For example, Mica’s Ryobi Line Trimmer (550W) is ideal for precision trimming around borders or patios. You can find various options at the DIY stores mentioned above, with some larger options for bigger spaces.
These tools save time, let you trim close to walls, and often come with interchangeable heads. Use your RCS Store Card to spread the cost — you don’t have to pay all at once.
4. Heavy-Duty Rake / Leaf Collector
Raking is basic but doing it with a flimsy rake is frustrating. Go for a stronger 16 or 18-tine metal rake or ‘heavy-duty’ model like the Lasher Heavy Duty Rake at Agrimark. These are often sold at major hardware retailers and help you clear debris, leaves, grass clippings, and soil more effectively.
A good rake speeds up clean-up, and it’s especially useful after wind, storms, or general spring shedding in your garden.
5. Hand Tool Garden Set
For close-up work, a compact hand tool kit with a trowel, cultivator, and hand fork is essential yet often neglected. One good and affordable option is the Hand Tool Set from Makro — sturdy, versatile, and useful for planting bulbs, transplanting seedlings, and aerating tight patches. They’re inexpensive, high ROI tools.
6. Cordless Shear / Shrub Trimmer
For convenience, a cordless shear (often 18 V battery powered) is a great “spring surprise” tool. It’s handy for trimming small shrubs, hedges, or decorative bushes without dragging a cord. For instance, Builders’ Einhell GC-CT 18/24 Li is a good one to look out for. Hardware stores within the RCS network often stock these during the spring season.
Why These Tools Are Smart Picks for Spring (with RCS Store Card perks)
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Seasonal demand — Many of these tools go on promotion in spring as DIY/garden stores gear up. Use your RCS Store Card to capture deals before stock runs out.
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Spread out cost — You don’t have to pay all at once. The RCS Store Card lets you spread payments over upcoming months, making it easier to buy multiple tools without breaking your budget.
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One-stop network access — Since RCS partners include major hardware chains (Builders, Build It, Brights, Mica, Agrimark), you can access a broad tool range within your existing network.
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Bundle deals — Keep an eye on promotions: seasonal bundles (for example, hand tool + fertiliser) might be available in-store or online.
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Maintenance and longevity — Investing in a stronger, better-quality tool pays off over several seasons. That’s more value per rand than always buying the cheapest version.
Tips Before You Buy
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Check the tool’s warranty or guarantee — Many hardware stores provide 6- or 12-month guarantees on garden tools.
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Power source matching — If your yard is large, go battery/cordless; small yard? electric corded or even manual tools might suffice.
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Test ergonomics — Hold the handle, feel its weight; you’ll use it a lot.
Spring is your chance to refresh your garden and get ready for the growth season. With the right set of lesser-known but truly useful tools — and by using your RCS Store Card to manage cost smartly — you can transform your outdoor space without stress.
