PRODUCT REVIEWS
You can tackle weeds quickly and efficiently with a hoe. and there is a range of different types to choose from. So which one is best for you?
SPEEDHOE
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The pointed stainless steel head is designed to guide the blade in the right direction on the forward motion. On the pull motion, the curved shape of the rear blades creates a slicing action through soil and roots. The twin points at the rear dig sharply into the ground, drawing the blade downwards as it travels through the soil. It has a hardwood shaft. Length: 170cm (67in),
HAXNICKS
www.haxnicks.co.uk
TEL: 01179341795
PRODUCT CODE: N/A
PRICE: £28.49
KG VERDICT
This has quite a long shaft so offers excellent reach and reduces the need for stooping or bending. A little heavier than most. The blade is very effective at digging int the soil, whether friable or compacted, on the pull motion and cutting down weeds below the surface. It is particularly good for weeding between rows and on unplanted plots where weeds have grown unchecked. A very effective tool.
TRADITIONAL-STAINLESS-ANGLED-HOE
With a mirror polished stainless steel head for rust resistance and minimal soil adhesion, this hoe will cut through the roots of weeds. It has a weatherproofed hardwood shaft and is particularly suited for hoeing around established plants. It also comes with a 10 year guarantee. Length: 143cm (56in)
SPEAR & JACKSON
www.spear-and-jackson.com
TEL: GO TO WEBSITE FOR STOCKISTS
PRODUCT CODE: 4860SW
PRICE GUIDE: £20 plus
KG VERDICT
This is quite a light tool, so easy to manoeuvre in and around plants and between rows. The sharp edge of the blade is effective in penetrating the soil and cutting through the roots of weeds on a pull motion, and it’s almost golf putter shape allows for good dexterity, getting in and around relatively tight spaces.
STAINLESS STEEL OSCILLATING HOE
Using a push and pull motion this The Kent & Stowe Stainless Steel Oscillating Hoe will cut through weeds as it mover under the surface of the soil. The head is made from high quality stainless steel and it has an ash wood shaft. Length: 160cm (63in).
MARSHALLS GARDEN
www.marshallsgarden.com
TEL: 01480 774555
PRODUCT CODE: 10907325
PRICE: £34.99
KG VERDICT
With a long shaft you will get a good reach with this tool, especially useful for weeding between rows or yet to be planted spaces. The push and pull motion works very effectively, loosening and aerating the soil the same time as cutting through the roots of weeds. Best where soil is not overly compacted.
DUTCH HOE
With a sharp stainless steel head for minimal rust and soil adhesion, this Dutch hoe will slice through weeds just below the surface and also aerate the soil for better absorption of water and nutrients. The long handle is made from FSC certified hardwood. RHS endorsed and comes with lifetime guarantee. Head width 12cm (4¾in). Overall length 161cm (approx. 63in).
BURGON & BALL
www.burgonandball.com
TEL: 0114 233 8262
PRODUCT CODE: N/A
PRICE: £36.99
KG VERDICT
The shaft offers a very good reach and negates the need for bending and stooping, and is easy on the hands. Using a push motion the blade penetrates the soil comfortably and slices through weeds effectively. A good generally purpose one for weeding between rows and where there is sufficient spacing for the blade between plants.
CORONA EXTENDAHANDLE LIGHTWEIGHT GARDEN HOE/CULTIVATOR
This hoe/cultivator extends from 45cm (18in) to 86cm (almost 34in) with a simple twist of the handle which is made from strong, lightweight steel. The head is made from tempered steel with a protective coating to resist rust and chipping. Comes with a life-time warranty.
BURGON & BALL
www.burgonandball.com
TEL: 0114 233 8262
PRODUCT CODE: N/A
PRICE: £15.99
KG VERDICT
This is a good hoe for borders and raised beds where you don’t need an extensive reach to get to the weeds. The fact that the length is easily adjustable makes it a versatile tool, especially with the dual action head. Use the flat head to chop through soil and weeds on the pull stroke, or use the three pronged head for loosening and aerating the soil. A strong, robust tool.
