Garden gloves are as essential a tool as a shovel or a rake. It may seem extravagant, but owning three pairs will make a multitude of tasks easier. (Your cuticles will thank you, too.)

Washable Synthetic Gloves: For general maintenance — deadheading, weeding in dry soil, handling seeds. The thin fabric and snug fit allow your fingers maximum dexterity. Foxgloves, (above left) $25, www.foxglovesgardengloves.com.

Latex-Coated Cotton Gloves: For dirty, wet jobs, like picking up leaves or planting shrubs, and for working with thorny plants (the latex coating is puncture-resistant). Little's Good Gloves Mud Gloves, (above center) $8, www.mudglove.com.

Heavy-Washable Leather Gloves: For tough jobs, like digging holes, clearing brush, and carrying firewood. Womanswork suede pigskin gloves, (above right) $24, www.womanswork.com.

Arm Protectors: Consider elasticized sleeves if you often prune brambly shrubs. Little's Good Gloves arm protectors, (above rear) $8 a pair, www.mudglove.com.