reviewed by Truman Perkins
Speaking from experience, taking care of overgrown roots can be annoying. It's even worse if you are a hobbyist who cares about your garden during your free time. Imagine how annoying it would be to discover undesirable roots in your garden or backyard.
The unattractive and ugly growth of these roots ultimately disrupts your garden's overall aesthetics (beauty). Also, more importantly, allowing these roots to grow and mature will lead to damage to the sewage pipes and underground plumbing. Thus, if you are looking forward to a hassle-free gardening adventure, digging up roots is vital.
However, it is easier said than done. You should note that digging up roots is quite a tough job to get done, especially when you use simple shovels to get the work done. This is why specially made shovels have been developed to dig up roots. The more massive the root is, the more effective and powerful the removing or cutting tool should be. Also, the bigger the shovel, the harder it is to maneuver. Thus, most models opt for the use of fairly light manufactured materials. This prevents tired arms, excess effort, and pain.
In this article, I have properly reviewed and compiled a list of the best shovel for digging up roots. Following the reviewed products is a well-detailed buying guide. These are the important things I figured out every shovel for digging should possess, and I believe they will help you make the right decision when purchasing one for yourself.
Before we get right to the product review, I believe knowing "the best way to dig roots" and "the best type of shovel for digging" is important.
Contents
Digging up roots in your backyard and garden is one essential task you must undergo to experience flawless gardening. However, you should note that there is no perfect way to achieve this.
Avid gardeners utilize various procedures to discard these unwanted tree roots and stump in the garden. While some prefer to do it manually, physically digging them up with shovels, others prefer to go for rock salts or chemical treatment.
Thus, whether you choose to hire a professional to get the job done for you or you decide to do it yourself, the best way to go about digging up roots from your backyard and garden is via the manual process. This procedure still stands as the most effective method too.
Also, there are two (2) options under manually digging up roots. You can decide to go for a shovel, or preferably, you can make use of a stump grinder. Although both options come with their respective perks, after much review, I highly recommend you go for the first option (shovel).
Using a spade to dig up roots means that you can practically dig around the root's suspected area while closely inspecting it. This enables you to dig even deeper, too, as you discover more roots. You can pull with your hands the discovered roots. Although this process is time-consuming, it is equally the most effective way to go about it as the end product or result is much cleaner compared to other methods.
The use of a stump grinder is a heavy-duty technique to get the job done. This method, no doubt, gets the job done in no time. However, it also, in most cases, result in severe root problems. You should also note that these stump grinders are quite expensive too, and in addition to the protective headgear and goggles needed for the task, you are sure to spend a fortune on the method. However, unlike the first method, the uprooting process is extensive and much quicker with the stump grinder.
Regardless, I highly recommend you go for the first method. From experience, it is the most cost-effective and efficient method as long as root digging is concerned. Everything else depends on your requirements and preference.
It is totally fine to be overwhelmed by the shovel you see online. However, you must evaluate a couple of factors before purchasing any shovel that suits your needs. First, let's talk about the various kinds of shovels that are handy.
From experience, any tools used to dig should possess high quality and durable materials. However, for the sake of root digging, the most important thing to look out for is the blade's shape. This will determine whether it is meant for cutting roots or digging them up.
The closed-back blades are regarded as a mid-range shovels with strong and durable construction. The closed-back blades normally come with an extra welded plate. Hence the name "closed back." They also possess improved rigidity and strength. The extra plate added to these types of blade help in preventing soil from piling up due to its flat and smoother surface.
This is an economical option, more especially for people with a tight budget. Shovels with the "open back" type of blade straightly get the task done. Generally, this kind of blade is branded or hammered into a particular shape, developed to give users a lightweight experience. The "open blade" shock is indeed a wonderful way to carry out your basic gardening tasks.
The forged kind of blades is the best. They are heavy-duty shocked that they will get things done in no time. This kind of shovel blade is forged or manufactured from a single steel piece, making it stronger and thicker. This also leads to its improved cutting execution.
As stated earlier, forged shovels are the best kinds of shovels to go for when digging up roots is involved. However, with respect to your preference and budget, the other two (2) types are equally capable of getting the job done.
Product Review of the Best Shovel for Digging up Roots
Below is the list of the best shovel for digging up roots. Alongside each review are their corresponding features, pros, and cons.
If you are in search of a multi-purpose shovel to carry out your garden tasks, then you should consider going for the "Radius Garden 22011 root slayer shovel." It is an award-winning shovel that comes in handy in most gardening tasks where it can be used as a saw, hatchet, and pry-bar.
The shovel comes with an incredibly refined design, making working with it fun. The looks alone make its users feel good about working with it.
The Radius Garden 22011 root slayer shovel also features an O - handle grip, providing more comfort to its users. The shovel was designed to give its users a greater gripping power when compared to that of a regular shovel. They are reliable and above all much comfortable to carry out the garden task with.
Involving in gardening activities over a long period is very stressful and can expose you to long-term body damage. Thus, the Radius Garden 22011 root slayer shovel features a serrated design that helps reduce wrist and hand stress while the users get their job done. Additionally, the thermoplastic elastomer, alongside the comfortable non-latex, makes the Radius Garden 22011 root slayer shovel one of the best shovels used to dig up roots in your backyard and garden.
Features of the Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel
a. Multi-purpose shovel as it can take care of most gardening activities efficiently.
b. It comes with a V-shaped blade, making it very easy to dig up dirt and roots.
c. It comes with a powder-coated tip, which plays an important role in its durability.
d. Features a sleek design, which helps reduce the stress one encounter while shoveling.
Pros
a. Highly durable.
b. Amazing lifetime warranty.
c. The shovel's blades are made using carbon steel.
Cons
a. Not ideal for extensive shoveling as it features a narrow blade.
b. It is not the most lightweight shovel out there.
There are so many varieties of this particular shovel online. However, I highly recommend this one for digging purposes. Other versions include the transplanting spade and the square garden spade used for transplanting and trench maintenance. In addition to their respective uses, they can take care of most gardening activities too.
The Fiskars 46 inches steel D - handle digging shovel comes with a D - handle, thus making it easy for completing most gardening tasks like trench maintenance, transplanting, and root separation easy. The said handle is also wide enough to accommodate the user's hands during wielding, providing a stronger grip. The handle is also plastic.
It also features a completely powder-coated 18-gauge steel shaft. The coating helps resist rust thus, adding to its durability.
The Fiskars 46 inches steel D - handle digging weighs around 4.8 pounds. Regardless, it is still a lightweight tool that users can effortlessly lift for work purposes.
Features of the Fiskars 46 Inches Steel D - Handle Digging
a. It has a powder-coated shaft to enhance rust resistance and durability.
b. Lifetime warranty.
c. Wide D - handle for a relaxed two-hand wielding.
d. Features 14-gauge sharpened steel.
Pros
a. Lifetime warranty.
b. Rust protected and pre-sharpened blade.
c. The large handle can contain both hands.
Cons
a. Heavy as weight is about 5 pounds.
b. Lacks a blade on either side.
On our number 3 is the gardening shovel with steel from Spear Head Spade. This is a reinforced fiberglass gardening tool designed to provide its users with the most comfortable digging experience. With this gardening shovel, you are sure to find digging up and cutting through roots less demanding. This is, in fact, one of the best if not the best compact shovel available today, measuring only 40 inches in size.
Unlike most shovels with fiberglass handles, proving their sturdy and lightweight nature, this gardening shovel is supported with pultruded fiberglass. Thus, it is 60% sturdier compared to other shovels whose handles are made from fiberglass.
This shovel has proven worthy for digging up compacted and rocky soils. It is also perfect for dividing uprooted perennials as well as for transplanting.
Reviews from most users (gardeners) have revealed that working with shovels while putting on gloves can be uncomfortable sometimes. This is often because of the small-sized handle these shovels come with. This shovel features a larger D-grip cushioned handle that works exceptionally with gloves to put an end to this.
Features of the Gardening Shovel With Steel
a. Cushioned D-grip handle.
b. Comes with a pultruded fiberglass handle.
c. Perfect for digging up compacted and rocky soils.
Pros
a. Perfect in destroying roots and also carrying out other standard shoveling tasks.
b. Lightweight design.
Cons
a. It comes with less surface area to grip.
b. Lacks blades on either side.
c. No official warranty, although the product is highly durable.
The 14-gauge round point shovel is a heavy-duty shovel known to be one of the sturdiest out there. With this shovel, you can bid farewell to the most difficult and disturbing roots in your backyard or garden. The featured 14-gauge blade is capable of penetrating hard soils.
To further make it worthwhile, the shovel also features an indestructible fiberglass handle that uses hardwood.
This tool was crafted in the USA and is perfect for contractors who are more into heavy tasks.
Features of the Bully Tools 82510 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel
a. 14-gauge blade
b. D-grip handles are made from polypropylene Co-Polymer.
Pros
a. Wide handle.
b. Lifetime warranty.
c. Great grip featuring no-slip texture.
d. Great for heavy-duty digging.
Cons
a. Maintenance is costly.
b. Heavy to operate and carry.
This shovel is another amazing option if you are looking for the best digging shovel. It is lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to use. It is simply the best shovel for digging up roots in reduced areas and small yards.
Amazingly, the tool can be operated by women, men, and even children. This is because of its lightweight, featuring a hardwood shaft and handle.
Users of this tool would have to kneel to cut or dig through roots if they are very tall.
Also, much effort is not needed while using, as the 8-inch point blade can penetrate the toughest, most dense, or hardest soils.
Features of the Martha Steward Mts-Mds1 27-inch Mini Round Point Digging shovel
a. Hardwood shaft and handle.
b. Comes with an 8-inch point steel blade.
c. Powder coating or covering.
d. D-grip type of handle.
Pros
a. Resistant and durable.
b. Easy to use.
c. Lightweight
d. Adolescents and adults can easily use it.
Cons
a. It can be too short for most people.
b. Requires leaning over while using.
Another great shovel for digging you need to check out. This tool is unique as it is lighter compared to other designs.
The shaft is made of fiberglass, making it lighter than similar shovels. This plays an important role in making sure your arms are not tired easily.
It also features a pointed blade made using steel. It is perfect for difficult roots as well as tough soils. The handle is D-grip and is also made of fiberglass, giving its users more leverage.
Features of the True Temper 2586100 Round Point Forged Shovel
a. The shaft is made of fiberglass, such as the handle.
b. Features a D-grip handle.
c. Comes with a forged blade.
Pros
a. Resistant blade.
b. Lightweight.
c. Rust tolerance.
Cons
a. Not fire-resistant.
This is yet another incredible tool. This tool is exceptional because it can be used as both a mini saw and a root slayer shovel. This tool comes with an ultra-lightweight, making it possible for its users to dig up to 80% with ease.
It can be regarded as a digging spade, a shovel, and a root cutter. It was made from reinforced fiberglass, providing it with all the necessary elements to penetrate your yard or garden without you feeling the roots disturbing your hands.
It features an arrow-shaped blade with a serrated root cutting boundary.
Features of the Roam Wild Multi Digger Garden Spade
a. Arrow-shaped blade.
b. It is made from fiberglass.
c. Multi-purpose.
d. They have a serrated root-cutting boundary.
Pros
a. Compact design.
b. Two types of handles are available.
c. They are made from fiberglass.
Cons
a. Not ideal for extremely tough surfaces.
b. A bit heavy.
This is a great garden shovel that combines a decent amount of blade surface. The blade also features an elevated part, which helps hold more materials.
Also, it provides users with a large footstep allowing them to dig in deeper with every scoop made. This helps get the job done faster.
There is a fiberglass handle that helps prevent rust and breaks.
Features of the Root Assassin One Shot Garden Shovel
a. Fiberglass handle.
b. The blade has a decent amount of surface with an elevated part.
Pros
a. Durable.
b. Its rounded and wide tip is perfect for turning soil.
c. Blade's angle is perfect for shoveling and digging.
Cons
a. The handle, in most cases, is too short for tall people.
b. Elevated blade part can disturb while carrying out some task.
I'm sure you must have gained a little knowledge of shovels and their various types. In this section, I will be giving you a well-detailed buying guide to help you make the right decisions when trying to purchase a shovel to dig roots.
For a shovel to be used for digging up roots, it must attain or meet a couple of factors or criteria. Thus, for you to make the right decision when purchasing a shovel to dig up roots, here's everything you need to check out.
A durable and sharp blade is one of the important things to check out for if you intend to cut and dig up roots. I highly recommend you also check for the pointed ones. They will make penetration into the dirt easily.
For a greater effect, blade steels must be solid enough; if not, they end up cracking or bending when they come in contact with extremely hard surfaces. Most suitable blade steels measure between 12 - 14. However, for heavier tasks, 16-gauge blade steel isn't enough to get the job done. The most suitable blades for this purpose include; round point blades, inverted "V" blades, and serrated blades.
Round point blades are often used to penetrate hard surfaces or grounds such as rocky soils and compacted clay. It's easier to get to the deepest roots with the round point type of blades. However, it can cause real pain, especially during the cutting process. Also, with this kind of blade, you should know that extracting and cutting a too tough root could take a longer time than the average.
On the other hand, inverted "V" blades are the best for scraping and cutting larger roots in a very limited period. The inverted "V" blades come with two (2) point tips, unlike the round point blades that feature only one (1). This feature enables it to penetrate challenging soils greatly. Their heads also cover a little surface.
Lastly, serrated blades work in a like manner with a knife. They come in handy when cutting and penetrating roots in compacted soil. Also, with each movement of the shovel, the head can cover a little surface area, thus, reducing its ability to get rid of loose dirt.
However, from what I noticed from using all three (3) types of blades, use the action of all three if you intend to gain maximum efficiency.
The shovel must have an ergonomic (user-friendly), secure, and non-slip handle to have better power and stability. This is why the best one comes in various materials like polyethylene, steel, fiberglass, and wood. For the purpose of digging, there are a couple of shovel handle types often used. They include; Straight handle, D - handle, O - handle and T - handle.
Straight handles are not ideal for digging up roots or any task that involves applying too much force. They often fall from the user's hands as well. If you must use them, it is advised to wear gloves so that blisters won't affect them.
D - handles are the most comfortable type of handle, which feature a smooth surface. Depending on the handle's width, users can effortlessly apply force using one or two hands with the D- handle type.
O - handles feature an arc that forms the point for attachment of the user's hands. Based on the reviews from users, it is highly convenient for some while it is not for others. However, from my point of view, it is not convenient. This is because the hand attached to the top part of the arch suffers so much during broad impacts.
T - handles just like the D - handle type features a smooth surface. However, this type of handle does not have upper edges to help prevent them slipping of hands. Thus, it's not ideal for users with sweaty palms.
Depending on your requirement and what works best for you, you can go for any of the aforementioned handle types. However, note that the strongest handles are made from soft materials. This makes it possible for users to dissipate efforts, proper grip, and avoid blisters.
This is another very important factor to consider when purchasing a shovel for digging purposes. Users of these shovels are advised to consider their height before making a purchase. If you don't pick the right shaft, you will likely end work each time with back pain. This is because, for small-sized individuals, there are shovels with short shafts. Getting a shovel with the right shaft for you will prevent you from bending unnecessarily during work.
Most shafts today are produced using three main materials; hardwood, steel, and fiberglass.
Among the materials mentioned above, hardwood is the strongest and lightest in terms of dissipating impacts. This means that the pulse generated is not moved to the hands, thus, giving the user more control. However, the hardwood often becomes weak when exposed to moisture. Thus, to keep them safe and for them to last for a long while, users are advised to keep them away from fire and water.
The steel shaft is the strongest among the three materials mentioned above. The most suitable is the 16-Gauge. Although it is known to be the stronger, it is not the lightest, and because of this, users are sure to experience arm exhaustion after using it for a long period.
Fiberglass, on the other hand, is a synthetic substance that is highly solid and lightweight. Modern models of shovels come with fiberglass shaft materials. The fiberglass shaft materials are also very easy to handle.
The weight of the shovel is another very important factor to consider when selecting a shovel to purchase. Having the right weight is important to help save you time and energy, especially for people who intend to use the tool for a long period to accomplish heavy-duty tasks.
This factor is, however, entirely dependent on the user's preferences. The weight of a shovel varies so much depending on the size and type of blade it features. Also, the slightest difference in the weight of the shovel can bring about a massive change in the user's experience. Merely because the said shovel is heavy with thick and strong materials, it isn't suitable for use.
Heavy shovels are likely going to end up giving the users a wrist of torso fatigue. This is why I highly recommend you go for the lightweight ones with comfortable grips.
I also believe that's trying out different shovels with different weights would be very helpful in helping you get what you want.
Most people always feel that a product's price is dependent on the quality. That is, the greater the price, the better the materials used. Well, this is true, but not in all cases. In most cases, the high price is solely dependent on the product's name and success.
Don't get me wrong, shovels from well-known or popular brands have high efficiency. However, there are some less popular brands with high-quality products (even better than the products of popular brands), selling at a lower price.
All I'm saying is this, do not let the price tags influence your decision. If you have the money, it's okay to go for the right shovel for root digging. However, if you don't, it's okay to consider going for cheaper alternatives. With your requirements and other users' views, you can always make the right decision.
Considering the size of the shovel's blade is very important. Here's why. Shovels these days come in different sizes and shapes. Also, depending on the sizes of the blade, users can carry out their gardening tasks in different ways.
Bigger blades are known to cut through roots and dig deeper trenches more effectively. However, they are equally heavy to lift and, in most cases, lead to muscle soreness. Thus, it is advised to stick with the smaller and medium blades.
On the other hand, the smaller and medium blades are very easy to lift and hardly lead to muscle soreness. However, the size of their blade makes them less efficient. Thus, much time is required to dig up stronger roots or dig bigger holes with the smaller and medium blades.
It's also important to consider your backyard or garden's soil type before purchasing a digging shovel. If the garden's soil type is a soft one, then most shovels will be ideal. However, if the soil type has so much clay content or is rocky, you should make sure you opt for a heavy-duty shovel. Note, if the shovel is going to be for commercial use, make sure to go for a sturdy, durable, and heavy-duty one, regardless of the soil type.
This is dependent on the type of shovel. If your shovels come with a wooden handle, then it is replaceable. Also, wooden replacement handles are readily accessible with so many step-by-step guides online on going about it.
If your shovel comes with a fiberglass handle, you will encounter some challenges trying to replace it. Not that it can't be done.
In the process of shoveling, a couple of muscles are involved. They include the hamstrings, calves, and glutes. Also, the core muscles are involved.
A spade often features a straight, less concave edge. They are often used for edging and cutting.
A shovel, on the other hand, features a rounded blade. They are mainly used to dig.
Back pains are problems often encountered after or during a shoveling activity. The best way to eliminate back pains in these regards is to purchase the right shovel for yourself.
If back stress or strain is the main issue, I recommend searching for a digging shovel with a long shaft or handle. This will give you no reason to bend over while shoveling. Also, it would help if you tried bending your hips and knees other than your back, or preferably, try not to wriggle while shoveling.
Typical gardening shovels feature large scoops and long handles, making it easy for them to move soil and chop roots. However, a camping shovel model features a folding or telescopic handle, making it easy to store.
Your preferences determine the right shovel size; that is what you intend to do with it. If you intend to move soil from your backyard or garden, you should go for a shovel with a polyethylene lip and a large scoop.
However, if you are in search of a camping shovel, you will need something different.
The truth is dead roots are great decomposers and natural fertilizer. However, it takes a long while to act as one. Thus, if you have no intentions of remodeling or restoring your garden any time soon, then you should let the dead root be, as they will bring great benefits to your plants.
Roots are quite thick and strong and are mostly located underground. Even when the plant is deceased, the root remains alive. The root, however, takes close to five (5) years to decompose properly.
As earlier stated, old roots tend to stay in the ground for a long period. Planting a new plant over them won't be a nice thing to do as they will end up interfering with the newly formed root network, practically hindering the tree's growth.
Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel, (Red) - Walmart Link
Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Digging Shovel - Walmart Link
Spear Head Spade Gardening Shovel with Steel Reinforced Fiberglass Handle, Cushioned - Walmart Link
MARTHA STEWART MTS-MDS1 27-Inch Mini Round Pt. Digging Shovel w/8-Inch Heat-Treated - Walmart Link
ROOT ASSASSIN OS-002 60-Inch One Shot Garden Shovel, Red/Grey - Walmart Link
True Temper 2586100 Round Point Forged Shovel with 27 in. Fiberglass Handle and Comfort - Walmart Link
Bully Tools 82510 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel with Fiberglass D-Grip Handle - Walmart Link
AMES Companies, The 163118800 Thumb D-Handle Round Point Mini Shovel, Green - Walmart Link
Root Assassin One Shot Garden Shovel, 43" D-Handle - Walmart Link
Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel, (Red) - eBay Link
Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Digging Shovel - eBay Link
Spear Head Spade Gardening Shovel with Steel Reinforced Fiberglass Handle, Cushioned - eBay Link
MARTHA STEWART MTS-MDS1 27-Inch Mini Round Pt. Digging Shovel w/8-Inch Heat-Treated - eBay Link
ROOT ASSASSIN OS-002 60-Inch One Shot Garden Shovel, Red/Grey - eBay Link
True Temper 2586100 Round Point Forged Shovel with 27 in. Fiberglass Handle and Comfort - eBay Link
Bully Tools 82510 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel with Fiberglass D-Grip Handle - eBay Link
AMES Companies, The 163118800 Thumb D-Handle Round Point Mini Shovel, Green - eBay Link
Root Assassin One Shot Garden Shovel, 43" D-Handle - eBay Link
It's funny how the root shovel is still not regarded as an important piece of yard tool when it should be. Shovels are part of any gardener's toolbox. However, not all shovels can take care of the different types of tasks.
To remove loose soil, most shovels will come in handy. However, as long as it has to do with cutting and digging up roots, not all shovels are useful. Thus, before you decide on the type of shovel you intend to purchase, make sure to cross-check all the important factors. If you follow the above buying guide, I'm sure you will make the right decision.
If I must recommend any shovel, it will be the "Radius garden 22011 root slayer shovel" because of its overall performance. Even when exposed to the toughest of terrains, the shovel can still cut through roots and dig up dirt extensively. And the shape of the blade and design of the shaft were all made to give the best outcome.
I hope it was an educating and interesting article. Feel free to drop your comments and questions in the comments section, if any. Please don't forget to share with family and friends.
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About Truman Perkins
Truman Perkins is a Detroit-based SEO consultant who's been in the business for over a decade. He got his start helping friends and clients get their websites off the ground, and he continues to do so today. In his free time, Truman enjoys learning and writing about gardening - something he believes is a natural stress reliever. He lives with his wife, Jenny, and their twins in Detroit.
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