BEST SHOVEL FOR DIGGING UP ROOTS IN 2023 REVIEWS & BUYING GUIDE

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If you are looking for the best shovel for digging up roots, you have arrived to the right place. When it comes to shovels, many people believe they are simply digging tools. This is incorrect. There are many different types of shovels available in a variety of forms and sizes for a variety of tasks. Not all shovels are created equal, and each performs a specific role that is distinct from the others. It is critical to note their greatest applications because doing so will avoid you from experiencing buyer’s regret and failing to complete the task at hand with the wrong tool. And it’s not always the best choice for digging roots.

In recent years, an increasing number of tools known as root shovels have entered the market, each of which is specifically designed to make digging in your yard more convenient. In any shovel, the blade shape is the most important part to pay attention to. It will tell you whether or not it is suitable for digging and roots. It is time to consider other aspects of the design, such as the weight, length, quality of the materials, and cost if you are satisfied with the design.

If you are not an expert at shoveling, don’t be worried about it. You will now learn how to locate a shovel for the purpose of digging roots. We’ve compiled a list of the top ten best shovels for digging up roots available on the market, as well as a buying guide to help you decide which one to buy. In this research, we’ve included just the greatest products that are promised to be of high quality. And they are driven by top brands or inventors.

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[dt_fancy_title title=”BUYING GUIDE: HOW TO FIND THE BEST SHOVEL FOR DIGGING UP ROOTS” title_size=”h2″ title_color=”accent”]

Here’s all you need to know about a shovel to see if it’s perfect for digging up roots. Let us now guide you in finding the best shovel for digging up roots:

best tool for digging up bamboo roots
[dt_quote]√ Blade Styles
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If you want to dig and cut roots like butter, all you need is a blade that is both razor sharp and long lasting. To get into the dirt, you need a sharp blade.

Blade steel must be strong enough to withstand heavy impacts, otherwise it will bend or shatter when it comes into contact with extremely hard surfaces. Steel gauges 12-14 are the most appropriate. When it comes to heavy-duty jobs, a 16-gauge steel blade just isn’t up to the challenge.

The best blades for this type of application are:

  • Round-pointed blades
  • Serrated blades
  • Blades with a “V” inverted

We’ll learn a little more about blade types right here.

In the case of hard conditions, such as compacted clay or rocky soils, round point blades are the best option. That way, it would be easier to go into the deepest roots. However, cutting activities might be a big problem with them.

At a single spot, all the force is concentrated, reducing the root’s contact surface. Root cutting and extraction can take longer when the root is excessively hard.

Using a serrated blade is quite similar to using a knife. Using them to penetrate and cut roots in compacted soil is a good use for them.

With each movement, their heads become smaller, making it more difficult for them to clear away loose dirt.

Using inverted “V” blades is the fastest way to cut and scrape massive roots. As opposed to round-point blades, inverted “V” blades have two point tips instead of one. As a result of this role, more difficult soils can be penetrated.

However, as with shovels with serrated blades, their heads still have a very little surface area. Three blade actions can be combined for optimal productivity in a single operation.

[dt_quote]√ Blade Material
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A basic study of the three types of blade materials used in shovels can help you choose the best one for your needs.

In terms of long-term durability, steel blades are hands down the best and most durable option out there. The weight is justifiable, despite the difficulty of lifting and working with them.

Root and trench digging compared to steel, aluminum is an excellent choice for this task. Even though they are not as strong as steel, these can last for a long time.

Using plastic bladed shovels for professional gardening is not recommended because they are the least durable. They can’t withstand extreme weather conditions, and they’re more prone to break while lifting high weights. We recommend this shovel for first-time gardeners who are only doing the most basic tasks.

[dt_quote]√ Shaft
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Before making an online purchase of a digging shovel, consider your height to ensure that you get the proper one. As a result, certain shafts are too long for small individuals. The result is that some are overly short, forcing you to bend at the waist while you work.

Back pain is a foregone conclusion if the incorrect shaft is selected during the installation process. These three materials are used to make the vast majority of shafts nowadays.

  • Steel
  • Hardwood
  • Fiberglass

The 16-Gauge is best for steel shafts. Although it’s the strongest, it’s not precisely the lightest. Your arms will begin to ache after a long period of use.

Compared to steel, hardwood is lighter and stronger at dissipating impacts. As a result, you have greater control over the pulse. Hardwood, on the other hand, appears to be weakened by moisture.

Wooden shovels should be kept away from water and fire to extend their lifespan.

In comparison to other materials, fiberglass is extremely durable and lightweight. Fiberglass is used in most recent models’ shafts. Despite the ease with which fiberglass shafts can be handled, big efforts tend to bend them excessively.

[dt_quote]√ Handle
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A non-slip, stable, and ergonomic handle is essential for maximum power. There are a variety of materials available, including fiberglass, polyethylene and wood. The most commonly used tools for digging include:

A non-slip, stable, and ergonomic handle is essential for maximum power. There are a variety of materials available, including fiberglass, polyethylene and wood. The most commonly used tools for digging include:

  • Straight handle
  • O- handle
  • D- handle
  • T- handle

Straight handles aren’t the best choice when you need to exert a significant amount of effort. They appear to be falling from your grasp as well. Without gloves, it is almost guaranteed that blisters would develop as a result of the friction.

Carrying the shovel in an arc with both hands is made possible by the O-handles.. Some individuals find it convenient, but others do not. It is a matter of personal preference. When broad hits are made, the hand at the top of the arch looks to take an excessive amount of punishment.

D-handles function in the same way as O-handles, with the exception that the support’s surface is smooth. According to its width, it is the most comfortable sort of handle and allows you to apply force with either one or both hands depending on your preference.

T-handles give a smooth surface for support, but they do not have any upper edges to prevent the hands from slipping. When it comes to sweating palms, this is not the best option.

The handles with the strongest point are made of softer materials. Because of this, it is able to grip the object properly, dissipate efforts, and avoid blisters.

[dt_quote]√ Weight

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The weight of the shovel is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a shovel. Having the appropriate weight on a shovel is important since you will be using it for longer periods of time and executing heavier chores. This will save you a significant amount of time and energy.

Heavy shovels strain the arms and back, thus we don’t recommend them. The lighter, more comfortable-to-handle options are best. Make sure to experiment to see if the shovel you choose will be effective in the long run.

These are the most important considerations to keep in mind when looking for a shovel.

[dt_quote]√ Price
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If you can afford a quality trench digging shovel, go ahead and dig it with confidence. If this is not the case, there are less expensive options to explore. It’s often a good idea to base your decisions on what other people think.

You can assume that the cost is linked to the quality of the content. The cost rises in direct proportion to the quality of the components. However, this isn’t always the case. In many cases, the high price is due to the product’s fame and popularity. Shovels from well-known manufacturers do perform better. Unknown brands, on the other hand, offer the highest-quality products at a reduced cost.

[dt_fancy_title title=”BEST SHOVEL FOR DIGGING UP ROOTS – 2023 REVIEWED” title_size=”h2″ title_color=”accent”]

In this first segment, we review ten of the best tool for digging up roots on the market as of now:

1. Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel

You’re probably seeking for the best gravel shovel on the market. The Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel is the perfect choice if you fall into this category. Its design and performance in all terrains make it a must-have tool for any outdoor enthusiast.

This tool slices like butter through even the toughest and most stubborn roots and twigs. Radius Garden 22011 has an inverted “V” tip, which is different from previous models with pointed points. As a result of this design, you can apply greater force across a larger area, boosting the efficiency of your cutting.

The wide edges of this shovel give secure support for the foot, allowing it to exert greater force. Because of its jagged edges, it is the most effective mulch shovel currently available on the market.  It is also smaller and lighter than previous models.

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Pros.

√ High levels of performance
√ Light-weight
√ Durable

Cons.

× Handle is uncomfortably curved
× Shovel surface that is smaller

2. ROOT ASSASSIN RA-002 Carbon Steel Shovel

A more compact version of the well-known Root Assassin Shovel. Clean and precise cuts in smaller areas are made possible with this tool.

As a result of its pointed tip and serrated borders, the job is made significantly easier. The strength of the roots is insufficient to withstand the force of this small digging equipment. Because it is compact and lightweight, this instrument is particularly well suited for shorter users.

Due to its lightweight design, it is one of the lightest shovels available on the market today, weighing only 2.2 pounds. It is constructed of industrial-grade steel so that it may resist severe use without being damaged. This tool is coated with a silver powder coating, which provides the highest protection against moisture and corrosive compounds available today.

The D-grip handle of the Root Assassin Shovel, which has a rubber coating, allows you to maintain greater control while working.

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Pros.

√ It’s little and simple to use
√ Light-weight
√ Cutting and digging are simple tasks that require minimal effort

Cons.

× With roots that are too strong, it is not very efficient
× For people who are taller than average, this is an issue

3. Fiskars 397960-1001 PRO Shovel, Digging, 44 Inch, Silver

It is highly handy for yard work and working on raised beds. The 397960-1001 model from Fiskars is a professional tool that is extremely durable. Besides being useful for digging holes, this shovel is also useful for carrying dirt and soil from one location to another with the help of a wheelbarrow.

In contrast to the lightweight fiberglass handle on the previous model, this shovel has an extruded aluminum handle that increases its strength and durability. Not that we have anything against the fiberglass handles, yet the twin bolted connection of this shovel’s handle does give for a more secure grasp. The tool comes in help while carrying heavy tons of soil.

In order to make this shovel as heavy-duty as possible, the FIskars design team has done an incredible job of engineering it. The design incorporates a lengthened shank, which improves strength when digging up a large piece of compacted earth with ease. The optimum angle of this shovel is simply the icing on the cake, as it shows to be useful for both digging and prying operations.

The number of D-Shaped Handled shovels on our evaluation today is staggering, and this one is not an exception. An important reason why most shovels have a D-handle is that it helps to minimize arm strain.

As for this shovel, the d-shaped handle, combined with the fact that it is small, makes it an excellent tool for working in confined locations.

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Pros.

√ The handle of this professional digging shovel is made of extruded aluminum, which provides higher robustness
√ Working in confined locations has never been easier than it is with this heavy-duty compact shovel
√ Has enlarged shanks and improved angles for digging and prying jobs that are both effective and efficient
√ Handles that are D-shaped to reduce hand strain are included

Cons.

× The construction is excellent, but the weight is excessive

4. Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Digging Shovel

It is a lightweight, durable, and highly resistant composite material. The Fiskar Steel D-Handle Digging Shovel with a 46-inch D-Handle will last a lifetime.

It is built of varied gauge steel in order to provide maximum strength while minimizing weight. Steel with a 16-gauge shaft and a 14-gauge blade are used. To strengthen resistance to external chemicals, the entire surface is covered with a black powder coating.

Its big D-handle provides greater space for both hands to work with. The strong pointed blade can readily penetrate even the most difficult surface and cut through the toughest roots.

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Pros.

√ Very light in weight
√ Long-lasting and resistant
√ Improved control over one’s actions while at work

Cons.

× Handle made of plastic with little resistance
× Scoop is overly wide for several applications

5. TABOR TOOLS Shovel with Rounded Blade and Comfortable D Grip 31 Inch Fiberglass Handle

In situations where the ground isn’t too hard but you need to dig a lot, there is no better tool than a shovel. The Tabor Tools J201A is the greatest shovel for digging holes for those who are short in stature, according to the company.

The greatest shovel for loose soil excavation. This tool is ideal for all types of yard labor. You might want to try this one if the majority of the shovels are too lengthy for your hands.

Stainless steel scoop that has been heat-treated and powder-coated for optimal resistance to high stress and corrosion. If a large rock gets in your way, the point blade of the rock will not be damaged.

It also sports a D-Grip fiberglass handle, which provides superior control while weighing less. The scoop’s bended edges provide more foot support than the straight edges.

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Pros.

√ Long-lasting and resistant
√ Large excavations will benefit from this product
√ It’s small and portable, and it’s simple to use

Cons.

× Strong roots should not be cut with this tool
× A steel blade can be bent with considerable effort

6. Radius Garden 22311 Root Slayer Nomad, Red

Providing your children with their first gardening instruction is made much easier with this equipment. Radius Garden 22311 is an excellent choice for small yards and straightforward activities.

You may believe that, based on its size, it isn’t the best shovel for digging in clay, but you’d be incorrect. The large digging surface of its steel blade allows it to dig large holes in a short amount of time. Its Root Slayer Nomad is designed to prevent blisters and shock absorption.

It also includes a heat-treated and powder-coated blade, which provides optimal durability. It has the ability to penetrate hard soils vertically and cut small roots with little difficulty. It has been specifically built for straightforward chores. It’s also the best snow shovel you’ll ever use.

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Pros.

√ Perfect for use as a weed buster
√ Long-lasting and resistant
√ Lightweight and small in size

Cons.

× Heavy-duty applications are not recommended

7. True Temper 2586100 Round Point Forged Shovel

Compared to other designs, this one is lighter. The Ames 2586100 43-InchTrue Temper Shovel is the ideal solution for tired arms after a full day of work.

Due to the fact that it is primarily built of fiberglass, it is significantly lighter than other similar variants. This duty prevents your arms from being overly fatigued too soon.

It can resist significant effort because of its steel blade with an about point shape that does not deform. Perfect for soils with problematic roots and for exceptionally tough soils. Another feature of this model is a fiberglass D-Grip handle, which provides you with extra leverage and allows you to concentrate all of the power on one stage. Hard work and yard maintenance are made easier with this product.

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Pros.

√ It’s quite lightweight
√ Blade that is resistant to deformation
√ Rust tolerance is extremely high

Cons.

× The shaft of fiberglass is less resistant to corrosion than the shaft of steel
× It does not have a high level of fire resistance

8. Spear Head Spade Gardening Shovel with Steel Reinforced Fiberglass Handle

The least amount of work was put into it in order to attain the greatest penetration. The blade’s ability to be creative is ideal for all types of yard labor, regardless of the weather.

Protective and lightweight at the same time. The revolutionary blade design of the Spear Head Spade SHLF2 allows for full penetration into hard soils with minimal effort because to its low center of gravity. It employs straight cuts on the blade rather than a circular scoop to achieve better results on hard surfaces than the competition.

If you have joint problems and are unable to perform yard maintenance tasks, this is the appropriate equipment for you. The carbon-manganese blade of this weapon can withstand massive collisions and corrosion.

Also useful for cutting through roots that are particularly solid and thick. The handle and shaft are composed of fiberglass in order to reduce overall weight.

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Pros.

√ This method reduces digging efforts by 80 percent
√ Long-lasting and resistant
√ Very light in weight

Cons.

× The design of the blade is not appropriate for various activities
× Scooping space has been reduced

9. Super Duty Multi Purpose Garden Spade Root Cutter Shovel

If you are having difficulty clearing your tracks, this excellent shovel, which is a fantastic innovation from LavoHome, will be more than happy to assist you with your problem. Despite how pleasant it may sound, this shovel performs admirably when it comes to clearing out trenches and drains that you may have to peel around your house.

When it comes to security, this shovel delivers, and it can be used for a variety of activities. With the help of this shovel, digging through roots and sod will be a joyride rather than a chore. Furthermore, because it may be used for a variety of tasks, this shovel will remove the need for saws. –

This shovel is built in a forward turned-step style to ensure that your foot is securely placed on the shovel. While digging up the soil, it will be beneficial to apply force to the soil. While most shovels cause wrist and hand strain, this shovel has greater leverage, which makes it far more comfortable to use with than other shovels.

Whether you plan to use this shovel for regular gardening activities, for home purposes, or for business purposes, it will be a good investment in your time. It will effortlessly complete each set of activities without a single hiccup. When compared to the standard shovels, this one is more effective and provides a smoother hold on the ground.

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Pros.

√ The ideal garden shovel for digging up roots and digging out ditches in the garden
√ The forward turning step design allows for additional force to be applied when digging up compact soil
√ Hand shovel with a robust grip handle that operates admirably and is hybrid in design

Cons.

× The handle appears to be a little flimsy and may eventually break

10. Martha Stewart MTS-MDS1 27-Inch Mini Round Pt. Digging Shovel

You can get one for next to nothing and it’s really lightweight. It is the Martha Stewart MTS-MDS1 digging shovel that is recommended for small yards and limited spaces.

A man, woman, or child should have no trouble using such a fantastic tool. Despite the fact that the handle and shaft of the Martha Stewart MTS-MDS1 are constructed of hardwood, it is one of the lightest and most lightweight models available on the market.

If you are too tall, you may have to bend down to dig or cut the roots. The scoop’s heat-treated and powder-coated construction provides greater strength and durability.

Furthermore, the 8-inch sharp blade easily penetrates even the toughest and most dense soils with little effort on the user’s part.

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Pros.

√ It is long-lasting and resistant to damage
√ Useful and portable, yet not very bulky
√ This product can be used by both adults and children

Cons.

× Individuals may find the length to be too short
× This item can only be accessed by stooping

[dt_fancy_title title=”TIPS” title_size=”h2″ title_color=”accent”]

Best way to dig up roots with shovels. Investigating the underlying factors before removing them –

Finding the safest place to chop down the root is the most important step. There is a risk of having an accident if you chop down roots that are too close to the tree.

It’s important to avoid big roots at all costs. For the tree to remain stable, these are called the tree’s structural roots. They are frequently found at the base of a tree and are usually no more than six inches from the trunk of a tree.

A third factor to keep in mind is that chopping more than 20% of the roots would kill your tree. You don’t need to remove more than 20% of the roots every year. There are several reasons why you might want to remove the entire tree rather than just this portion of it:

Using a shovel of your choice, you can follow these steps to successfully remove roots:

The first step is to excavate a hole around the roots that need to be removed.

Secondly using a pencil, draw a line around the hole to help you remove the targeted roots more quickly.

Thirdly once you’ve got everything ready, dig up the roots with a medium-sized shovel. Check the roots of the plant’s preferred tree as well.

[dt_fancy_title title=”FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)” title_size=”h2″ title_color=”accent”]

We finish off by answering some of the common questions about the best shovel for digging up roots:

best tool to dig up tree roots
[dt_quote]Q1. What is a shovel?

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In the meanwhile, there are shovels specifically intended for digging up roots. Here’s a quick rundown of the best shovels for digging up roots on the market.

A. A shovel is a horticultural implement that is mostly used for digging holes in the ground. However, it is also useful for moving loose materials such as soil, snow, or other loose materials. Despite the fact that it is not ideal for digging holes, the most popular garden spade has a slightly concave blade and a flat edge, making it helpful for cutting through sod, edging your lawn, and marking a trench.

[dt_quote]Q2. Is there a certain shovel that is useful for digging up roots?

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A. Each shovel is designed to perform a specific function. With each of the shovels listed in this article, you may simply finish the task of digging up roots.

[dt_quote]Q3. Is 16-Gauge steel suitable for use in a shovel head?
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A. No. In order to endure significant pressure or penetrate hard surfaces, the thickness must be increased.

[dt_quote]Q4. What type of material is preferable for the shaft?
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A. Depending on the intended use. Steel is the material you choose if you wish to exert more force. As a result, if you want to maximize effort dissipation, hardwood is the best choice. If you want to save weight, fiberglass is the material to choose.

[dt_quote]Q5. How can I determine the appropriate shaft size for my needs?
[/dt_quote]

A. First and foremost, you must determine your height. The distance between the pointed tip of the shovel and the top of the shovel should be approximately the same length as the distance between the tips of your feet and the midpoint of your torso.

[dt_quote]Q6. Can the shafts of shovels be replaced?
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A. Yes. If the shaft breaks, a replacement one can be purchased at a local hardware store.

[dt_quote]Q7. How can I tell if a shovel is suitable for digging up roots?
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A. A shovel is suitable for digging if it possesses the essential specifications:

  • A blade with a sharp point
  • Steel head with a gauge of 12-14
  • The shaft is extremely durable
  • Handle that is comfortable
[dt_fancy_title title=”Final verdict” title_size=”h2″ title_color=”accent”]

Different varieties of shovels are available on the market, and not all of them are designed specifically for digging and cutting roots. The majority of shovels are adequate for removing loose soil. After reading our guide, you should have a better understanding of which shovels have received the greatest ratings, allowing you to select the best shovel for digging up roots. You now have the option of selecting the best shovel for digging roots from the selection listed above, based on your specific requirements and preferences. Gardeners will be interested to know that the shovels we have reviewed for digging roots are extremely popular among them.

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Aithley Balder

Hello there, my name is Aithley Balder from Texas. I am a cookware, sewing, toilet, technology enthusiast and I have been sharing my passion with my friends and likeminded folks for close to 4 years now. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me via the contact page.

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