You’ve probably heard the saying, “The right tool for the right job.” This wisdom holds true in many areas, and gardening is no exception. One of the most indispensable tools in a gardener’s arsenal is the humble gardening spade.
Why is it so crucial, you ask? Well, the spade’s versatility is key. Whether you’re digging, edging, or transplanting, this tool is a gardener’s best friend. Join me as we delve deeper into the world of gardening spades, exploring their uses, types, and how to choose the perfect one for your garden.
Gardening Spade
What is a Gardening Spade?
A gardening spade, one of the quintessential tools for garden enthusiasts, is a kind of short-handled shovel with a flat, rectangular blade. Characterized by its signature “T” or “D” shaped handles, it differs from a shovel mainly in its blade’s shape and angle towards the handle. Most gardeners prefer steel or metal spades, but you’ll also find alternatives in materials like fiberglass or wood.
Why is a Gardening Spade Important?
We’ve already discussed its versatility—the rectangular, flat blade makes the gardening spade suitable for a variety of tasks. But its importance lies not only in versatility, but also in precision. For instance, creating a straight-sided hole for planting or transplanting? A rounded shovel can’t compete with the spade. Similarly, if you’re planning some neat edges around your flower bed, the sharp blade of a spade slices through the soil cleanly, giving you that edge.
Different Types of Gardening Spades
Traditional Digging Spades
Traditional Digging Spades serve as the backbone of any gardener’s toolkit. Ideal for breaking up soil, removing turf, or creating new garden beds, these spades exemplify versatility. They boast a typical rectangular or slightly pointed blade with a flat edge, attached to a short handle. More often than not, these are made of high-strength materials like carbon or stainless steel. A prime example of such a spade includes the Bulldog Evergreen Digging Spade, renowned for its robust performance.
Border Spades
Next on the list are Border Spades, a compact variation designed specifically for working in confined spaces. They possess smaller blades and shorter handles, catering to delicate tasks like edging borders or working around existing plants. These lightweight companions allow for precise operations without disturbing nearby plants. Notable examples include the Spear & Jackson Traditional Border Spade, preferred for its unparalleled craftsmanship.
Transplanting Spades
Last but not least, Transplanting Spades cater to gardeners looking to relocate plants without causing them damage. These spades bear a unique, elongated, and narrow blade, making them perfect for digging deep holes. Furthermore, their curved sides ensure a smooth extraction and transplantation of plants. Renowned for their durability, the Fiskars Transplanting Spade exemplifies this category in the best way possible.
How to Choose the Right Gardening Spade
Material and Build Quality
It’s important to consider the material and build quality of a gardening spade. A spade’s longevity and performance largely depend on the quality of its materials and construction. For example, carbon steel spades provide durability, resist rust, and work well for heavy-duty tasks. On the other hand, spades with fiberglass handles offer lightweight comfort and strain-free digging. Always opt for a spade with a sturdy, well-constructed blade and handle to ensure it withstands the rigors of frequent gardening.
Handle Type and Length
While choosing a gardening spade, evaluate the handle type and length. Spades typically come with either “T” or “D” shaped handles. “T” handles offer stronger grip but can be difficult for people with smaller hands. “D” handles provide easier grip and suit most hand sizes. As for the length, shorter handles are more useful for close digging, while longer ones ease strain on the back during extended periods of gardening.
Spade Blade and Tip Design
Lastly, the blade and tip design of a gardening spade greatly influences its functionality. Rectangular, flat blades make neat and precise edges and are ideal for digging straight-sided holes. Sharper and narrower tipped blades, as found on transplanting spades, are perfect for cutting into dense soil and relocating plants without damage. Remember, selecting a spade with the right blade design lends precision to your gardening tasks and contributes to the overall gardening experience.