Spades

Spades are flat bladed digging tools for edging beds, cutting turf, digging trenches and moving soil, and they differ from shovels, which have a curved, scooped blade for moving loose material. The first decision is the job, because a border spade with a small blade suits tight beds, while a full size digging spade moves more soil.

Blade and handle are the next questions. Stainless steel blades slide through soil and resist rust, while carbon steel blades are strong and cheaper. A long handle reduces bending, while a D grip handle gives control. Among the 6 products that list item weight, most fall between 3.5 and 5.5 pounds, and 5 pounds is typical.

Weight and comfort matter for long jobs. Lighter spades are easier to use, while heavier ones cut through roots and clay. A tread on the blade top protects boots.

Before buying, check the blade size, the material, the handle length and grip, and the weight. Clean soil off the blade after use and oil wooden handles to stop them drying out. For heavy clay, a spade with a sharpened edge and a sturdy shaft cuts more easily, while sandy soil is easier with any spade. Edging spades with a half moon blade make neat lawn edges. Hang spades in a dry shed so wooden handles do not rot and steel blades do not rust.

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