As far as the tools go... I use a tool very much like what was described above and it's called a wing weeder. I don't think I could garden without it. It's one of my favorite tools. They make a long (to use standing-up) handle version and a short handle version. I don't use the long handle one , but love the short handle tool. It slices right through the soil. My favorite tools are the wing weeded, a digging claw, and a three to four inch thick piece of foam by about 24". The foam makes sitting on the ground a bit softer or I could kneel on it, and it just keeps my close a bit cleaner.
Barbara
