a telescoping rakeMust-Haves for the 'Rather Old' Set.

By Iris Watson
Photography by Al Wright


I just looked up the Webster’s Desk Dictionary definition of middle age. Apparently, it’s “the period of human life between about 40 and 60 years.” I can remember when I was 21 or thereabouts, middle age was around 30 to 35. Then at 30, it seemed to be around 45 to 50. As the birthdays came and went, my perception of what is considered middle age kept changing as well. Now that I have read that definition, I realize that I am in that limbo between middle age and elderly–elderly being defined simply as “rather old.” How rude is that?

Fortunately, in most cases, aging is gradual enough so that the changes in our abilities to function, both mentally and physically, are equally as gradual; we can all wrap that cloak of denial around us as tight as we please. But there eventually comes that day of awakening, such as the first time you actually ask for the senior discount at the movies—and get it! Or worse yet, when you don’t ask and get it anyway! But after awakening comes acceptance, and so, welcome to my world.

For the first 20 years of my career as a gardening retailer, I carried a few items that could make gardening more comfortable and easier. At that time, I would make suggestions from an observer’s point of view. Now, I speak from direct experience and with great enthusiasm—and the inventory just keeps on expanding. Gardening is a hugely popular pastime, one that requires energy and flexibility. In my case, gardening is not just a passion, it’s an obsession, and I find limiting myself very disappointing and frustrating. The following are a few of my favorite tools that keep me playing in Alameda’s dirt:

Metal -Folding Kneeler Seat : A sturdy green metal kneeler. The two handles provide support for lowering yourself onto the heavy-duty kneeling pad and make it easy to get up again. Turn the kneeler over, and it becomes a comfortable padded seat. Easy to fold for easy storage, this well-made tool is a godsend for “rather old” knees. And by all means, do not limit it to outdoor use. Twenty years ago I would tell customers, “This is a really nice bench.” Now I say, “Omigod, you have GOT to try this bench! Here, let me show you…”

Ratchet Pruner: The ratcheting action does all the work for difficult, hard-tocut branches and is designed for people who have difficulty using hand tools. Available both as hand pruners and as loppers for larger branches.

Gardeners Elite Kneepads: One of the perks of getting older is that one does not have to give a hoot about looking like a dork if doing so helps you do something you love. Yeah, kneepads may look dorky, but they serve a very useful and practical purpose when gardening.

Felco No. 7 Hand Pruning Shear: This is the one pruner I use, as I have arthritis in both thumbs. It is a superbly designed pruner—the rotating handle revolves on its axis, allowing the fingers to move naturally, thereby reducing the fatigue that so often accompanies prolonged pruning work/fun.

Telescoping Hand Rake: This narrow rake head (5.5 inches) has a handle design that features a rubber grip inset for comfortable and non-slip use and a tubular steel handle that expands from 35 inches to 51 inches for easy access to those hard-to-reach places without your having to getting up.

Naps: Naps are probably the single most useful tool for a “rather old” gardener, so I highly recommend one. Afterward, you’ll have even more energy for putzing around in the garden.