Choose the Right Hoe for the Job
For more advice on choosing the best hoes for the tasks that await in your garden, read Hard-Working Garden Hoes.
| Tasks | Types of Hoes | Hoeing Tips |
| Controlling young weeds in large areas or long rows; thinning seedlings | Lightweight scuffle hoes such as diamond, triangle, Winged Weeder or stirrup hoes | Push the hoe forward and back from a nearstanding position |
| Spot weeding in tight spaces or intensive raised beds | Circle hoe, collinear hoe or any sharp scuffle hoe mounted on a short handle | Use a sitting pad or rolling seat for long, sit down weeding sessions |
| Weeding and hilling up soil at the same time | Field hoe, Japanese draw hoe or American garden hoe | Maintain a sharp edge for efficient weed control |
| Controlling large weeds; making furrows; cutting irrigation trenches; chopping compost | Field or grub hoe, Warren hoe or American garden hoe | Slightly loosen your grip with each progressive chop to reduce the impact on your back and shoulders |
