Table of Contents
Choosing the right shovel is essential for planting landscape plants successfully. The best shovels make digging easier, reduce effort, and help you create perfect holes for your new plants. This guide covers the top shovels suited for digging holes in your garden or landscape project.
Types of Shovels Suitable for Digging Holes
- Round Point Shovel: Ideal for breaking hard soil and digging deep holes.
- Drain Spade: Designed for precise digging, especially in tight spaces.
- Garden Trowel: Perfect for small holes and transplanting.
- Post Hole Digger: Suitable for digging deep, narrow holes for posts or large plants.
Top Picks for Best Shovels
1. Fiskars Steel D-handle Shovel
This durable shovel features a steel blade and a D-handle for extra leverage. Its design makes it excellent for digging holes in tough soil and breaking through compacted earth.
2. Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel
Known for its sturdy construction and sharp point, this shovel is perfect for creating deep, clean holes for planting trees and shrubs.
3. Radius Garden 101 Ergonomic Trowel
This lightweight, ergonomic trowel reduces strain on your hand and wrist, making it ideal for small planting holes and transplanting seedlings.
4. Fiskars Post Hole Digger
Designed for digging deep, narrow holes, this tool features two blades that work together to efficiently remove soil for posts and large plants.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Shovel
- Blade Material: Steel blades are durable and long-lasting.
- Handle Type: Comfort and leverage are enhanced by ergonomic handles or D-shaped grips.
- Blade Shape: Rounded points are best for deep holes, while flat blades suit shallow digging.
- Size and Weight: Lighter shovels reduce fatigue, especially for extended use.
Tips for Digging Perfect Holes
- Moisten the soil if it’s very dry to make digging easier.
- Use proper body mechanics—bend your knees and keep your back straight.
- Remove rocks and debris from the hole before planting.
- Ensure the hole is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant.
With the right shovel and techniques, digging holes for landscape plants becomes a manageable task. Select a tool suited to your soil type and planting needs to ensure healthy, thriving plants in your landscape.