How to Choose the Right Shovel?
A shovel is a well-known tool that people use for various purposes throughout the summer season. Experienced gardeners know that not every garden shovel is easy to use. An improperly selected instrument can cause significant inconvenience, up to physical injuries: calluses and a torn back. In this article, we will go into detail on how to choose the right model and how to care for it in order to extend its service life.
What to consider?
There are several defining criteria for choosing a shovel that you need to pay attention to before buying.
The prevailing soil on the site. Understanding what kind of soil the inventory will have to work with will help you choose a shovel model that will cope with the load without tiring back and arms.
On soft soil, peaty or sandy loam, a wide shovel with a rectangular or rounded blade has proven itself well. It will be convenient to work with such a shovel.
A bayonet shovel works well on the hard, clayey ground. This type of shovel has a sharpened blade, is the most popular, and is used for working with the soil of various breeds.
In the case when the soil is stony or riddled with plant rhizomes, you should stop your choice on a spade with a serrated blade.
Material
The material of the working part of the shovel affects its service life, quality, and convenience.
Previously, most often, shovels with an iron working part were used. Their weight was significant, but the convenience suffered.
A good modern alternative is a stainless-steel shovel. Its performance is higher, the blade stays sharp for much longer, and it is also much more convenient to use, as it is lighter and thinner than its metal counterpart.
A relatively new addition to the garden tool market is the titanium shovel. It is of high quality and the most expensive but definitely deserved: it does not corrode and rust, it does not deform during operation, it cannot see cracks and chips – this is a shovel for many years. The only feature: you will still have to sharpen it over time, just like a steel shovel.
The proper size
It is generally accepted that the shovel should be 10 cm lower to the human shoulder and above the elbow bend. This is a basic rule, however, it is theoretical, and it is necessary to be based on your own feelings in the selection process. Take a shovel in your hands, imagine that you are working with it. You should be comfortable, movement should not be constrained.
How to take care of the shovel?
Garden tools are a constant companion in the life of a gardener. It facilitates planting, weeding, harvesting, and site improvement. However, the tool requires some care, knowledge, and special storage rules. Shovel care is not difficult, but it is not recommended to neglect it.
At the end of the work, the tool must be rinsed with water from a garden hose to knock off the dirt.
If rust appears on the shovel, it is recommended to wipe the inventory with vinegar, it does an excellent job of removing it.
By performing these simple, but necessary procedures, you will extend the life of the shovel and other garden tools, while maintaining their appearance and functionality to the maximum. To get the shovel for your particular purpose, visit the Wickes website.
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