The dull hoe in the back of your shed probably just isn’t cutting it anymore. If you’re in the market for a new garden hoe, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve researched dozens of garden hoes, their purposes, blades, versatility, and more. Our final list brings to you the seven best garden hoes that are efficient, practical, and will speed up your gardening chores.
Stick around to find out how to shop for garden hoes, in-depth reviews, and hopefully, a match with the perfect one for you.
- Handmade in Korea
- Uniquely shaped blade
- Comfortable, ergonomic handle
- Made from recycled disc blades
- Versatile product with multiple uses
- 60-inch long handle
- Pesticide-free weeding
- Easy to sharpen with whetstone
- Right- & left-handed options
- Can use the blade at all angles
- Durable & chip-proof carbon steel blade
- Versatile with multiple uses
- Double-ended heart-shaped end
- Full steel design for durability
- Soft ergonomic handle grip
- 42 inch long handle
- Suitable for heavy-duty garden work
- High-quality materials for durability
- Super lightweight at 12.3 oz
- Handy dutch blade
- Sturdy, sharp blade edge
Product Reviews
Don’t miss these seven handy garden hoes.
1. HomeTheWay Korean Hand Tool
Best Garden Hoe for Weeding
Weeds don’t stand a chance against this super powerful and versatile hand hoe. This uniquely shaped tool is suitable for weeding your garden. It will help you get rid of weeds that seem to spread at breakneck speed.
As well as weeding, you can use this for digging, plowing trenches, planting, and basically any other garden work. If you are looking for an all-in-one tool that you can test in every area of your yard, then look no further.
The reason it works so well is the super sharp and pointed blade made of hand-forged steel. It’s handmade and designed to make for easy work out of challenging spots in the garden.
Although you will have to get onto the ground to use it — since it’s a hand hoe — it’s been designed with the gardener’s comfort in mind. The handle is ergonomically shaped, making it comfortable to hold. It’s sturdy and has a strong grip, allowing you to work longer without slips or fatigue.
Pros
- Handmade in Korea.
- Suitable for most garden jobs.
- Uniquely shaped, strong, sharp blade.
- Ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip.
Cons
- Can’t be sharpened easily.
- 4.53-inch handle is too short for some.
Product Specs
Purpose | Almost any garden job |
Weight | 9.5 ounces |
Handle Length | 4.53 inches |
Handle Material | Polished wood |
Blade Shape and Material | Unique shape; hand-forged steel |
2. Rogue Hoe Prohoe Garden Hoe
Best Heavy Duty Garden Hoe
This heavy-duty garden hoe is just the thing for tough garden work. The high-quality materials mean that this hoe is built to last a lifetime — a guarantee included. If anything goes wrong, the company will repair or replace the product without any questions asked.
The garden hoe comes with a wide-tempered steelhead designed to easily cut open new ground or cultivate existing ground. It has three super sharp edges allowing you to work for a long time with less effort.
You can cut into the ground from any angle due to the unique shape of the blade. It also fits between plants nicely so that you can dig new trenches.
We also think you’ll love the balanced weight. At 2 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than other hoes. However, it doesn’t make much of a difference since the weight is well balanced, for both men and women.
Pros
- Made from recycled disc blades.
- Versatile product with multiple uses.
- 60-inch long handle with great balance.
- Unique sharp blade for easy cutting and digging.
Cons
- Some customers found the blade’s edge retention to be poor.
Product Specs
Purpose | Digging and cultivating |
Weight | 2 pounds |
Handle Length | 60 inches |
Handle Material | Ash wood |
Blade Shape and Material | Triple edge; tempered steel |
3. DeWit Right Hand Dutch Hand Hoe
Best Dutch Hoe
This Dutch hoe is shaped in the classic Dutch way, but it goes a step further. It’s authentically true to Dutch quality, ensuring that the tool is strong, lightweight, and effective. A lifetime guarantee backs this, so you can ensure this tool will meet your expectations for years to come.
This comes with a crescent-shaped blade which lends itself to strong gardening work, ultimate control for the user, and a nice balance. What can this blade do? Its main purpose is weeding, but the unique shape means you could put it to the test in other areas.
The good thing about this is it weeds so well that you can finally eliminate the need for herbicides in your yard! This keeps your pets, plants, wildlife, and flowers happier.
When the blade wears down, you can easily sharpen it with a whetstone. So you can restore it to its original sharpness without any hassle.
Something To Note
This is a right-handed tool, suitable for right-handed users only. If you’re left-handed, make sure to choose the left-handed option before checking out.
Pros
- Backed by a lifetime guarantee.
- Perfect for weeding without using pesticides.
- Easy to sharpen with a whetstone.
- Both right- and left-handed options available.
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on the market.
- The 18-inch handle is a bit of an awkward length.
Product Specs
Purpose | Weeding |
Weight | 12 ounces |
Handle Length | 18 inches |
Handle Material | Ash hardwood |
Blade Shape and Material | Crescent shape; hand-forged boron |
4. Ashman Garden Hoe
Best Versatile Hoe
Dig, loosen soil, and weed with this Ashman garden hoe. It has been built with multiple uses in mind so that you can use this one tool for a range of jobs. In fact, you can even use it to aerate the soil, which is a huge bonus for keen gardeners.
The garden hoe is a strong and durable construction suitable for both light- and heavy-duty use in the garden. The blade and handle are secured together, so there will be no breaking and bending while you dig deep roots and work with tough soil.
The blade edges are extremely sharp, making it easy to cut through stubborn soil. Say goodbye to the frustration that comes with weaker garden hoes and tough soil. The prongs on this hoe are made with durable carbon steel, which is both handy for use and good for storage. The carbon steel is rust-proof and will remain strong for many years to come.
What’s really great is that it’s also chip-proof, so even if you have rocks or fertilizer in your soil, the prongs won’t chip or break as you work with the garden hoe.
Pros
- Fair price point for such a high-quality hoe.
- You can use the blade at all angles.
- Durable and chip-proof carbon steel blade.
- Versatile product with multiple uses.
Cons
- Some customers found the edge to be a bit blunt.
Product Specs
Purpose | Digging, loosening soil, aerating, and weeding |
Weight | 2.44 pounds |
Handle Length | 55 inches |
Handle Material | Fiberglass |
Blade Shape and Material | L-shape; carbon steel |
5. DeWit Comby 3-Tine Hoe
Best Heart-Shaped Garden Hoe
Heart-shaped garden hoes are both practical and quite sweet-looking. If you’re in the market for one, we’ve found this super handy DeWit option.
It is double-ended, so on one side, you’ll find the heart-shaped blade, which is best for digging. On the other side is the 3-tine cultivator, which is suitable for cultivating and loosening tough soil.
Overall, this is a very versatile tool all-in-one. While it is pretty pricey, you’re saving money since you’re buying one tool instead of two.
The blades are made from hardened boron steel, which is sturdy and durable, and strong enough to loosen even the toughest soil.
The handle is also made of steel, which is a welcome change from wood for some customers. Mostly because it is very durable, and a lifetime guarantee even backs this. To protect the gardener’s comfort and fatigue, it’s wrapped with an ergonomic soft grip that allows you to dig and rake for ages without tiring.
Pros
- Double-ended with heart-shaped and cultivator end.
- Backed by a lifetime guarantee.
- Full steel design for durability.
- Soft ergonomic grip on the handle.
Cons
- A bit pricey, but ultimately you save money since it’s 2-in-1.
Product Specs
Purpose | Weeding, digging, and cultivating |
Weight | 1.1 pounds |
Handle Length | Roughly 13 inches |
Handle Material | Tubular steel |
Blade Shape and Material | Heart-shaped and tine; hardened boron steel |
6. Nisaku Long Handle Draw Hoe
Best Draw Hoe
This draw hoe from Nisaku is a great choice, especially if you’re looking for a versatile option.
You can use it in many ways throughout your yard. It’s suitable for clearing weeds, crops, and plant residue, harvesting vegetables, and shaping soil. So if those sound like the kind of tasks you need to tackle, this is a hoe to consider.
The handle is made from polished wood and spans 42 inches long. This allows you to have good control while still being comfortable since the handle is easy to grip.
The blade itself is what aids the versatility but also the durability. It’s made from 1960 Tomita Japanese stainless steel, fashioned by real metal craftsmen. Also, it’s forged instead of welded, which means it’s more sturdy and heavy-duty. Finally, it’s secured with steel rivets, so it won’t bend or break off as you work.
Pros
- Ultra-sharp blade for leveraging power.
- Suitable for heavy-duty garden work.
- Multiple uses such as harvesting, removing weeds and shaping soil.
- High-quality materials for durability.
Cons
- 42 inches is a bit short — other hoes span up to 60.
- Blade is extremely sharp so keep away from children and pets.
Product Specs
Purpose | Harvesting, removing weeds, and shaping soil |
Weight | 1.02 pounds |
Handle Length | 42 inches |
Handle Material | Polished wood |
Blade Shape and Material | Draw shape; Japanese stainless steel |
7. Wolf-Garten Dutch Hand Tool
Best Lightweight Garden Hoe
Don’t want your garden tools weighing you down? Then maybe you’ll like the sound of this 12-ounce tool from Wolf-Garten.
This Dutch hand tool is specifically used for evening out weed growth. So it’s not the most versatile tool on our list, but if that is the specific task at hand, then sometimes it’s better to get the exact tool for it. Just keep in mind that it’s best suited for light, sandy soil rather than hard, compact soil.
The weeding blade on this tool is hard and sharp, making it suitable for digging down into the soil and removing tough weeds. The edge is sturdy and sharp, making your job less of a hassle as it will cut through soil quite effortlessly.
As for the shape, it’s a dutch blade which means the blade is thin and easy to insert into soil. Push forward, and the blade will easily slip under the soil and slice the weeds. The cutout in the middle of the blade also helps to reduce drag, giving you an easier gardening experience.
Pros
- 12.3 ounces — super lightweight.
- Handy Dutch blade for effortless gardening.
- Sturdy, sharp blade edge.
Cons
- Quite expensive for a hand hoe.
- Not suitable for hard, compact soil.
Product Specs
Purpose | Evening out weed growth |
Weight | 12.3 ounces |
Handle Length | Not specified |
Handle Material | Metal and plastic |
Blade Shape and Material | Dutch shape; metal |
Product | Best | Purpose | Weight | Handle Length | Handle Material | Blade Shape and Material |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HomeTheWay Korean Hand Tool | Best for Weeding | Almost any garden job | 9.5 oz | 4.53″ | Polished wood | Unique shape; hand-forged steel |
Rogue Hoe Prohoe Garden Hoe | Best Heavy Duty | Digging & cultivating | 2 lbs | 60″ | Ashwood | Triple edge; tempered steel |
DeWit Right Hand Dutch Hand Hoe | Best Dutch Hoe | Weeding | 12 oz | 18″ | Ash hardwood | Crescent shape; hand-forged boron |
Ashman Garden Hoe | Best Versatile Hoe | Digging, loosening soil, aerating, & weeding | 2.44 lbs | 55″ | Fiberglass | L-shape; carbon steel |
DeWit Comby 3-Tine Hoe | Best Heart-Shaped | Weeding, digging, & cultivating | 1.1 lbs | 13″ | Tubular steel | Heart-shaped; boron steel |
Nisaku Long Handle Draw Hoe | Best Draw Hoe | Harvesting, removing weeds, & shaping soil | 1.02 lbs | 42″ | Polished wood | Draw shape; Japanese stainless steel |
Wolf-Garten Dutch Hand Tool | Best Lightweight | Evening out weed growth | 12.3 oz | N/A | Metal & plastic | Dutch shape; metal |
Types of Garden Hoes
Garden hoes all typically do the same thing, but it’s important to distinguish between the three main types.
Draw
A draw hoe is the most common kind of garden hoe. It has a 45-degree angle blade at the end of the handle and earns its name from the fact that you need to chop and draw the hoe inward. This is mainly for loosening soil and digging weeds. While it can take a while to dig up hard and deep roots, it’s a classic tool that most gardeners own.
Pros
- Readily available across the market.
- A must-have for gardeners.
- Great for loosening soil and digging weeds.
Cons
- Time-consuming if digging hard, deep roots.
Scuffle
Scuffle hoes, often known as eye hoes, have a triangular-shaped hoop-type blade. These hoes are for the soil’s surface and can loosen the top inch or so. This is suitable for heavy-duty digging, root cutting, opening up plant beds, and removing weed growth. Within this range, you’ll also find dutch hoes and hoop hoes.
Pros
- Suitable for the soil’s surface.
- Heavy-duty design.
- Versatile uses including digging, root cutting, and more.
Cons
- Not as many options available on the market.
- Can be pricey.
Hand Hoe
Hand hoe typically refers to short-handled hoes rather than long hoes, which can span up to 60 inches. Hand hoes require you to get down to the soil’s surface, which may be tiring after a while, but ultimately gives you more control over smaller areas. Within this range, you’ll also find a variety of blade shapes and styles.
Pros
- Very lightweight, usually under one pound.
- More affordable, sometimes half the price of long-handled hoes.
- Gives you more control over smaller areas.
- Lots of styles and shapes available.
Cons
- You may have to be on your knees unless you have raised plant beds.
How to Choose (Buying Guide)
Consider these important criteria before making your final purchase. It will ensure you find the hoe that is best for you.
Tips for Using and Maintaining Garden Hoes
- Stay upright when using long-handled garden hoes. They’ve been designed so you shouldn’t have to hunch.
- Keep your garden hoe sharp. Sharpen it before it gets too dull. Otherwise, it will be challenging to use.
- Make sure you choose the right hoe for the job. While there are many versatile hoes out there, they may not work for your specific job. Always double-check before purchasing.
- Hold the garden hoe like you’d hold a broom for best control.
- Clean the garden hoe after each use to maintain its appearance and durability. This is especially important if they’ve been exposed to diseased plants.
- Even if your garden hoe has an ergonomic grip, wear gloves for safety and even better maneuverability.
- Hang your tools up in a dry area when storing them. This prevents rust and also keeps them from bumping into other items.
- Wipe down wooden handles after every use. Occasionally sand and oil the handles to keep them conditioned and smooth.
- Switch hands regularly if you’re able. This will prevent fatigue.
- Watch the weather. It’s best to deal with weeds when the soil is dry, making it much easier to pull out the entire root. This also ensures that most of the root is gone, which limits the chance of the weeds re-germinating. As for perennial weeds, it’s easier to deal with them when the soil is wet.