A garden spade is a tool used for working in the soil. It has a long handle, usually made of wood or metal, with a flat, somewhat pointed blade at the end. The blade is often square or slightly rounded and is made of strong metal. Garden spades are wider and flatter than shovels, making them good for cutting through dirt and roots. They’re used for digging holes, moving soil, edging lawns, and other garden tasks. Spades come in different sizes, but most are about as tall as a person’s waist.
Key Takeaways
- A garden spade typically consists of four main parts: handle, shaft, blade, and footrest.
- There are different types of spades for various gardening tasks – digging, border, transplanting, and trenching spades.
- Spades can be made from different materials, with hardwood handles and stainless-steel blades being popular choices.
- The design of each part can affect the spade’s functionality and user comfort.
The Parts of a Garden Spade
- Handle – This is where you grip the tool. Mine has a comfortable D-shaped handle that gives me good control.
- Shaft – The long part connecting the handle to the blade. I find that a strong, lightweight shaft helps reduce fatigue during long gardening sessions.
- Blade – The flat, sharp end that does the digging. My spade’s blade is slightly curved, which I find helps when scooping soil.
- Footrest – A flat part on top of the blade where you can put your foot for extra digging power. This feature has saved my back many times!
Types of Spades
- Digging spade – My go-to for general garden work.
- Border spade – Smaller and great for working in tight spaces between plants.
- Transplanting spade – Has a narrow blade perfect for moving plants without disturbing their roots.
- Trenching spade – I use this one for creating neat edges and digging narrow trenches for irrigation.
When it comes to materials, I’ve tried spades with wooden, fiberglass, and metal handles. Each has its pros and cons, but I prefer a hardwood handle for its durability and feel and stainless-steel blades.
Using a Spade
A garden spade is a helpful tool for working in your yard. To use it, hold the handle with both hands and push the point into the soil. Lean on the handle to drive the spade deeper. Then, pull back on the handle to lift the soil. You can move dirt, dig holes for plants, or edge your lawn with a spade. Always push straight down to avoid bending the tool. Clean your spade after use and store it in a dry place to keep it in good shape for years to come.