This is going to be awkward. I couldn't imagine I would enjoy using the Earth Bud-eze v-hoe, cultivator and trowel. But I did.

        Earth Bud-eze garden tools are ergonomic, which means they were built to save the smaller, weaker muscles of the hands, wrist and arm.

        Instead, they let gardeners use the larger, stronger muscles of the upper arm. The claim: maximum power, minimum strain.

        I tackled a weed patch with the v-hoe and cultivator. Gripping the vertical handle of the hoe with the cuff in position on the top of my arm, I made short work of the weeds with a back and forth motion.

        The cultivator tilled the damp, clay soil just as easily. By keeping the hand and wrist in line, it eliminated any wrist motion. Earth Bud-eze literature says the tools are particularly helpful for gardeners with arthritis and carpal tunnel.

        The trowel was more of a challenge and will take practice. I managed to dig a hole deep enough to plant a bulb by pressing the trowel down through the soil with my other hand and moving the dirt toward me. (A traditional trowel requiring wrist motion would have moved the soil away from me.)

        The three Earth Bud-eze tools, made of heavy-duty steel, cost $12.95-$14.95 each and are sold through Trustworthy hardware stores, some Target stores and can be ordered by phone, (877) 504-9800 or at www.earthbudeze.com.

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