Shovel vs spade: which tool to choose for digging?

It is often confused with a spade due to its design. But these are two different tools that each respond to specific uses. So, how do you tell the difference between these gardening tools? Which one should you choose for working the soil? Let's take a look.

The different types of gardening tools

To work the soil of your small vegetable garden, there's more than just the shovel and spade. Although both are at the top of the list of essential tools, the list is still long. And for each job, there is a specifically adapted instrument.

The hand cultivator

Before using the spade, using a hand cultivator is a necessity. It is used to trace a line for sowing seeds. The hand cultivator also proves to be an essential tool for weeding and aerating the soil.

The hoe

Due to its hook-shaped design with a rectangular head, the hoe is mostly used to loosen the soil surface. Its main function is thus to limit the appearance of weeds.

The hoe

Like the hoe, the hand cultivator is a tool that allows for effective weeding without the need to turn over the soil. It is characterized by 3 long, pointed teeth, capable of dislodging weeds before they even take root.

The shovel

The shovel, with its wide flat head, is perfect for digging into the ground. Whether you want to dig in soil or snow, it will be your best ally. It is usually characterized by a round blade that ends with a point.

The spade

Like the shovel, the spade has a blade at its lower part. The difference is that the latter is not rounded in shape, but rather flat. This configuration does not allow it to be used for working the soil, but rather for edging lawns.

As you've understood, the shovel is much more effective than the spade for digging the earth thanks to its design. But you'll still need to find the best model. To choose well, there are a few criteria to consider.

The handle

The choice of handle is important for finding the best shovel model. In this regard, you'll have a choice between two types of materials: wood and fiberglass. While wood is quite powerful and sturdy, it remains heavy and less resistant to weather. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is more weather-resistant. The only downside with fiberglass handles is that they are difficult to replace. This means that once your shovel is damaged, you'll need to buy a new one.

The length

For gardening work, a shovel with a long handle will be best suited. You won't need to bend your back to reach the rows between your plantings. Plus, it offers very good grip. However, if you want to work with roots, a shovel with a short handle will be preferable.

Regarding maintenance, you should know that it is possible to sharpen the blade of a shovel. But first, you'll need to clean it properly before using an abrasive stone.