Alexandria, Virginia – The warm weather has arrived and you are ready to get out and make your garden both beautiful and functional.

Maybe you want to have the best backyard on the block, set up an outdoor family room or outdoor office, or expand your space for entertaining.

Maybe your kids or pets could use a better space to play. Whatever your needs, now is the time to get your backyard ready for outdoor living this spring and summer. What tools do you need?

“It’s always easier to do big jobs outdoors with the help of outdoor power equipment,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). “The right mowers, trimmers, edgers, blowers, pruners, chainsaws and more can help you get the job done faster and maintain your garden safely.” Here are some tips from Kiser to help you select the machines you need to get the job done.

Plan your needs

Sketch your garden. Include all major features such as trees, bushes, an herb or vegetable garden, flower beds, garden furniture, play or sports equipment, an outdoor patio or birdbath.

Note where maintenance may be needed. Will bushes need to be cut from your house or garage? Do you want to put flowering bushes or a tree? Are you planning to put up a fence and more grass?

Consider the equipment needed

Visit your garage or shed and find your lawn and garden tools and equipment. Take out your mower and other equipment. Review them and make a list of what is needed or could be improved. Repair anything that needs attention or identify where a newer or better machine is needed.

If you have a large vegetable garden, you may need a cultivator or tiller. If you have a large lawn, upgrading to a zero-turn mower can make grass management easier. A trimmer can make it easier to maintain bushes or cut grass near a fence. A pruner can help trim branches that are too high to reach safely with a saw, and a leaf blower can clear leaves faster than a rake. Chainsaws make quick work of trees and more.

Research equipment online before you buy

Think about economies of scale. The right equipment can mean more time for other activities and make gardening more enjoyable too. Doing research online ahead of time will help you choose the right type and size of equipment needed for the job.

Outdoor power equipment can be gas, solar, propane, electric or battery powered and technology is rapidly impacting product design. Today, there are even robotic lawn mowers.

To ask questions

Chat with store staff or inquire online about equipment. In the store, ask to pick up and hold the gear to determine if it’s right for you. Discuss safety features and ask about manufacturer fueling and maintenance instructions. Find out how often the equipment may need to be serviced.

Make a storage and maintenance plan

Store your equipment in a cool, dry place. It should also be maintained in late fall and early spring. Put service dates on your calendar with a reminder. Also find or download the owner’s manual at your fingertips.

For more information, visit www.opei.org.