Illustration by David Grenier
Parts of the Spade
A multi-tasker par excellence, this simple tool is a gardener’s best friend
**Every garden begins with a spade.** As early as 1100 BC, the Chinese were digging with a bronze version of this trusted tool. With a rectangular blade, straight handle and D- or T-shaped grip, a good garden spade can cut through soil like butter, break up clods, pry stones, trim sod, divide perennials, chop roots, slice weeds and decapitate slugs. The one task it’s not meant for is scooping loose stuff like gravel—that calls for a shovel, which has a concave, heart-shaped blade.
**Grip:** This can be a T shape but is usually D-shaped. In a YD shape, the handle is split and curves up to form the sides of the grip (shown). Wooden grips are traditional; metal ones wear well but are heavier; plastic is waterproof but hard on the hands.
**Handle:** Generally made of hardwood (ash), handles are sometimes fashioned of tubular metal for heavy-duty work, or fibreglass, which is lighter. Wear gloves when working with a fibreglass handle to prevent blisters.
**Tread:** The “shoulders” of the blade have little metal platforms that act as foot treads. Look for generous, sturdy treads so your foot won’t slip off (many shins have paid the price of skimpy ones).
**Blade:** This may be forged of carbon steel, which is strong and inexpensive, or stainless steel, which is shiny, rustproof and more expensive. The key is how the blade is attached to the handle: by a socket or by straps that extend up the handle. Straps are stronger but, should the handle break, socketed spades are easier to repair. The term “hollow back” refers to the recess where the blade meets the handle; a “closed back” spade has a piece of metal welded over the recess. This prevents mud buildup but also makes the spade heavier. Use a file to keep the blade sharp.
**Buying tips:** Heft several spades to get a feel for a weight that suits you. To avoid an aching back, choose one that’s right for your height (lengths range from 35 to 43 inches). You’ve found your match if, when standing, the grip comes to waist-level and it’s wide enough to grasp comfortably. And remember not to skimp: a quality spade will be a friend for life.
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