Gardening With A Cell Phone: What To Do With Your Phone In The Garden

Person Taking A PIcture Of A Tree With A Cell Phone
phone
(Image credit: Sebastian Gorczowski)

Carrying your phone into the garden to work may seem like an extra hassle, but can be useful. Figuring out what to do with your phone in the garden, though, can be a challenge. Consider using a protective cover or getting a special tool belt or clip to keep your phone handy and protected.

Why Carry Your Phone in the Garden?

For many of us, time spent in the garden is an escape, a chance to get some peace and commune with nature. So why would we not leave our mobile phones inside during this time? There are some good reasons to consider taking it out in the yard with you.

The most important reason is safety. If you have an accident and are out of reach of another person, you can use your phone to call for help. Your phone can also be a useful garden tool. Use it to make a to-do list, take pictures of your plants, or do quick research.

Cell Phone Protection for Gardeners

To protect your phone in the garden, first, consider getting one that is sturdy. Some phones are more durable than others. Companies make what are termed “rugged” cell phones. They are rated by a measure called IP that describes how well these phones protect against dust and water, both important for gardening. Look for a phone with an IP rating of 68 or higher.

Regardless of the type of phone you have, you can also protect it with a good cover. Covers are most useful for preventing breaks when you drop your phone. With a cover, though, you can get dirt and dust trapped between it and the phone. If you take your phone into the garden, take off the cover once in a while to clean out the dirt and debris.

Where to Keep Your Phone While Gardening

Gardening with a cell phone is not necessarily convenient. Phones are pretty large these days and may not fit neatly or comfortably into a pocket. You have a few options, though. Cargo-style pants are great for gardening because of their big pockets, which will easily hold a cell phone (and other small gardening items too). They also allow room for movement and protect your legs from insects and scratches.

Another option is a belt clip. You can find a clip that fits your particular phone model and attach it to your belt or waistband. If you are looking for ways to carry your gardening tools as well, try a garden tool belt or apron. These come with multiple pockets to easily hold everything you need.

Mary Ellen Ellis
Writer

Mary Ellen Ellis has been gardening for over 20 years. With degrees in Chemistry and Biology, Mary Ellen's specialties are flowers, native plants, and herbs.