Preparation is key for a successful garden Eliminating weeds and preparing the soil for your flowers and vegetables are important first steps in growing a bountiful garden. But, removing sod, turning tough soil, breaking up overgrown weeds and hauling heavy compost are tasks many of us find difficult and tiring. That need not be the case, however, if you're armed with the proper tools. This year, when getting your beds ready for spring planting, be sure to have the following tools on hand: Spade - for slicing and cutting sod or for creating a straight edge around the bed. Fork - to turn over the soil or dig up and loosen weeds. Round-point shovel - to break up large clumps of dirt and remove rocks and roots. Square-point shovel - for transferring dirt and compost to your new bed. Look for tools that are made of high-strength steel with welded joints and feature ergonomic attributes that add to your comfort. Fiskars Garden Tools, for example, offers a line of long-handled tools that feature a steel handle with a teardrop shape, so they're easier to hang on to. An oval grip provides room for two hands, letting you choose the height that best suits you - two hands on top or two on the bottom. And, an enlarged step area on the blade provides added security for digging, prying or transferring heavy loads. For more information on Fiskars Garden Tools or to find a retailer near you, call (800) 500-4849 or visit www.fiskars.com .