Garden work can be difficult. You have to twist, turn, bend, and stretch to get plants watered, weeded, and pruned. On top of that, the work can get messy, and sometimes even result in cuts, scrapes, or other small injuries.
While sometimes these mishaps are inevitable, you can keep your body from getting too tired, your clothes from getting too messy, and your hands from getting injured by wearing the right attire while you tend to your plants. What should you wear (and not wear) in the garden? Let’s look at the best and worst clothing choices for your gardening adventures.
Do: Wear Sturdy, Closed-Toe Shoes
Your feet need protection from sharp tools, thorns, and uneven ground. Sturdy boots or athletic shoes with good tread will keep you safe and stable. They’ll also prevent dirt and debris from getting between your toes.
Skip the flip-flops and sandals—they leave your feet vulnerable to injury and won’t provide the support you need for hours of outdoor work.
Don’t: Choose Loose-Fitting Tops
Baggy shirts and oversized sleeves can catch on branches, thorns, and garden tools. This creates safety hazards and can damage both your clothes and your plants.
Fitted or semi-fitted tops allow you to move freely without getting snagged on obstacles. Long sleeves protect your arms from sun exposure and scratches, but make sure they’re not too loose.
Do: Select the Right Jeans
Slim, straight, and bootcut are a few of the different types of jeans you’ll find in stores. Certain jeans are better-suited to garden work than others; for example, straight-leg or bootcut jeans offer more room to move compared to skinny styles.
Look for durable denim that can handle dirt and washing. Avoid jeans with decorative tears or distressing—they’ll just collect more dirt and may tear further.
Don’t: Forget About Sun Protection
Your hat and sunglasses aren’t just accessories—they’re necessities. A wide-brimmed hat protects your face and neck from harmful UV rays, while sunglasses shield your eyes from sun glare and flying debris.
Light-colored clothing also reflects heat better than dark colors, helping you stay cooler during long gardening sessions.
Do: Invest in Quality Gloves
Your hands do most of the work in the garden, so protect them well. Good gardening gloves prevent blisters, cuts, and contact with irritating plants. Choose gloves that fit snugly but allow finger dexterity.
Leather or synthetic materials with reinforced palms work best for heavy-duty tasks, while lighter gloves suit delicate planting work.
Don’t: Overlook Proper Layering
Weather can change quickly when you’re spending hours outdoors. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a lightweight shirt, and keep a light jacket nearby for cool mornings or unexpected weather changes.
By dressing appropriately for garden work, you’ll find it’s much easier, and much safer, to plant, water, weed, and harvest. Keep these do’s and don’ts of garden wear in mind the next time you’re preparing to head to your yard, and dress yourself accordingly!
