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Luckily, there are quite a few styles of weeders to choose from.
The Spruce
You’ll have the best success if you weed when the soil is moist but not soggy.
We also like that the bright red color makes it easy to spot among greenery.
The 6.5-inch forked blade is made of strong steel with a rust-resistant coating yet feels very lightweight.
We love that the Fiskars4-Claw Deluxe Stand-Up Weeder requires no bending down to use.PHOTO: The Spruce
It’s not ideal for ground-hugging spreading weeds like spurge.
If you prefer to pluck them rather than use aweed killer, this long-handled tool from CobraHead can help.
The CobraHead’s handle is made of sturdy ash wood and is 54 inches long.
The Fiskars4-Claw Deluxe Stand-Up Weeder has serrated claws that dig efficiently into the soil.PHOTO: The Spruce
The manufacturer recommends that length for people between 5 foot 4 inches and 6 foot 1 inch.
But shorter and taller options are also available to help keep you comfortable during use.
This model has a 54-inch hardwood handle topped with a cushioned grip to keep your hands comfortable and secure.
In either position, the tool has an automatic line feed to advance the trimming cord as needed.
Just keep in mind that this tool isn’t intended for removing ground-hugging weeds, or for removing roots.
It’s also good for removing moss.
This sturdy tool makes it easy to grasp and pull deeply rooted weeds.
Some even have adjustable handles so you might tailor the length to your stature.
These tools have three or four sharp claws that are centered over the weed.
Stand-up weeders work well for roots with taproots or weeds with an obvious center to their growth pattern.
We especially like theFiskars Weeder, our best short-handled pick.
To use these efficient weeders, just scuffle the hoe back and forth through a patch of low-growing weeds.
The Corona Hori Hori Knife’s stainless steel blade is engraved with a metric ruler.PHOTO: The Spruce
Our best scuffle hoe pick is theAmes 54-Inch Wood Handle Scuffle Hoe.
Hand cultivatorsor hoes are garden tools with either three sharp prongs or a hoe-shaped blade.
They can be short-handled or long-handled.
The Corona Hori Hori Knife has a large, cushiony handle that’s comfortable and ergonomic.The Spruce
Thats why its important to consider the sturdiness of your weeder and not automatically choose the lowest-priced option.
While there are reasonably priced weeding tools, you might pay a little more for better quality.
Consider both the tools blade and its handle.
The Fiskars Weeder W-Ergo Handle is ideal for removing dandelions and any weeds with a deep taproot. .PHOTO: The Spruce
The sturdiest weeders have steel blades.
Steel is strong enough to stand up to rough and tough use.
On the downside, its heavy and can rust unless coated with a rust preventative.
PHOTO: Amazon
Plastic handles are lightweight but are the likeliest option to snap under pressure.
Fiberglass handles are the most expensive option but also the strongest.
Weeding can be hard on your back; all that crouching and standing is tiring.
PHOTO: Amazon
Thats why its a good idea to have a mix of long-handled and short-handled weeding tools.
Weeders with comfortably shaped handles are easier on your fingers and hands.
A non-slip grip is very helpful, as wet hands are part of the gardening territory.
PHOTO: The Home Depot
But even with a comfortable handle, its a good idea to weargardening gloveswhile you work.
Adaptable to Various Needs
Some weeders only serve one purpose.
Most other types of weeders, however, can serve more than one purpose around your yard.
PHOTO: The Home Depot
But it helps to first match the right tool to the weeds you are facing.
Our best overall pick, theFiskars Stand-Up 4 Claw Garden Weeder, has this handy feature.
There are weeding tools made specifically for this purpose.
PHOTO: Amazon
We recommend theGrebstk Crack Weeder.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Michelle Ullmanis a writer for The Spruce who specializes in home improvement products, including tools and landscaping supplies.
PHOTO: Amazon
She also used our testing insights from using several of these weeding tools in our home gardens.
The Spruce