Gray Bunny Traditional Outdoor Shepherd’s Hook, 65-Inch

Shepherds have long used long rods to help manage their herds. These are called shepherd’s crooks, and they’re named for the hook on the end that can be used to catch sheep. Shepherd’s crooks can also be used for self-defense, protecting both the shepherd and flocks against predators.

But the design of a shepherd’s crook has also inspired a trend in gardens across the world. Known as shepherd’s hooks, these stakes emulate the design of a shepherd’s crook to hold hanging baskets, bird feeders and decorative globes. There’s no limit to what these hooks can hold, as long as they don’t exceed the weight limit.

But if you’re investing in a hook that will spend most of its time outdoors, it’s important to make durability a top priority. Your shepherd’s hook will be exposed to the elements 24 hours a day. That means rain, snow, sleet and sun will be bearing down on it throughout the year. It will also be exposed to extreme wind conditions during storms, so it has to be able to anchor tightly into the ground without swaying. You’ll need a hook made from a material that can hold up to all that without showing signs of wear.

• Before you start shopping for a shepherd’s hook, take a close look at the area where you’ll install it. Make sure the ground is strong enough to hold it upright, while still being pliable enough to insert the hook. Also consider the color and design that will look best for the space.
• Shepherd’s hooks have a wide variety of placement options, from your front yard garden to your patio area. It can even be a great way to enhance your pool or outdoor grill area.
• One top consideration for your shepherd’s hook is its weight capacity. Take a close look at how thick it is. This will give you an idea of how much it can hold if the capacity isn’t listed. A thicker hook will also be more durable.
• Rust and corrosion are also important considerations. If your shepherd’s hook isn’t made of a material that will hold up in wet weather conditions, look for one that has weatherproof coating applied.
• The build of the hook says quite a bit about how well it will hold up to the elements, particularly wind. You can’t go wrong with iron, but steel is also a good option.