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If your garden is a spa for your plants, you need the right tools to make it zen. That’s where the garden trowel comes in: a handheld mini-shovel to make weeding and planting a breeze.
Trowels are a must-have for avid gardeners, helping you plant and transplant all kinds of bulbs and roots. Their compact size allows for easy annual planting, sowing vegetable seeds, and uprooting stubborn weeds. If that sounds like something you want to add to your toolkit, you’re at the right place.
Besides our honest reviews of the top picks, we’ve included a complete buyer’s guide and FAQs about garden hand trowels
Our List of The Best Garden Hand Trowels for UK Gardens
Here are the reviews, technical specifications, pros, and cons of the best garden hand trowels for UK gardens.
Burgon & Ball’s ComfortGEL Trowel excels in overall performance, combining comfort and precision for versatile gardening tasks.
Niwaki’s Moku Trowel offers premium quality, featuring a sleek design and superior craftsmanship for a top-tier gardening experience.
Spear & Jackson’s stainless steel trowel is ideal for tough jobs, ensuring durability and reliability for challenging gardening tasks.
Wilko’s Carbon Steel Hand Trowel stands out for its attractive design, combining style with functionality for an aesthetically pleasing addition to your garden tools.
Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel excels in seedling planting, providing precision and ease for delicate gardening tasks with its specialized design.
Garden Trowels vs. Spades
Most people often confuse garden trowels with spades, but they’re two distinct tools.
Garden hand trowels are always small and handheld, featuring a pointed, scoop-shaped blade. You can use it to plant small bulbs, annuals, and plants. Since they can easily fit into tiny spaces, garden trowels are perfect for precision work and weeding.
On the other hand, spades are larger and heavier, featuring a square-shaped blade. You can use it for heavy-duty tasks like edging, turning soil, and digging large holes. Their larger size doesn’t allow for precision but gets tougher jobs done quicker.
If you’re a gardening pro, it’s wise to have both tools in your kit.
How to Keep Your Hand Trowel in Top Shape
Here are some maintenance and care tips for your garden hand trowel.
- Clean your trowel after each use with a stiff brush or hose.
- Dry the trowel thoroughly to prevent rust, and apply a light coat of oil.
- Use a fine-grit sharpening stone or file to keep the trowel blade sharp.
- Store the hand trowel in a cool and dry place, preferably hanging.
- Don't use the trowel to pry rocks or other hard objects since it can cause dents.
Ranking Method
Using our comprehensive ranking method, we’ve listed some of the best garden hand trowels in the UK market. Categories like Best Overall, Best Premium, Best Good-Looking, and more helped us narrow our choices.
Our reviews also include factors like performance, material, weight, pros, and cons. Read our guide to find the perfect garden hand trowel for your garden.
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The Best Garden Hand Trowels in 2024
Unearth the best garden hand trowels of 2024, crafted for easy planting and transplanting, making your gardening endeavors a seamless and enjoyable experience.
01
Best Overall
Burgon & Ball Corona ComfortGEL Trowel
Reasons to Buy
- Cushioned handle
- Stainless steel construction
- Ideal for longer use
- Anti-slip ridges
- Engraved measurements
Reasons to Avoid
- Not affordable
- Not for large projects
- Doesn't work on tough soils
It’s no secret how the Burgon & Ball Corona ComfortGEL Trowel scored the Best Overall spot on our list. It’s the epitome of a high-quality, well-crafted, and ergonomic gardening tool.
The first thing you’ll notice is the ComfortGEL grip, guaranteeing maximum comfort during prolonged use. The handle is cushioned to prevent hand fatigue and provide a secure grip.
Plus, this is an incredibly versatile tool, thanks to its serrated edge. With its help, you can make light work of the toughest root systems or bags of compost. You’ll also love its depth markings when it’s time for extra precision.
While the price is admittedly high, it also pays for the long and reputable history of Burgon and Ball products.
Why Do We Recommend The Burgon & Ball Corona ComfortGEL Trowel?
The Burgon & Ball Corona ComfortGEL Trowel has a comfortable and secure design that scores it the top spot on our list. Its stainless steel blade and comfortGEL grip make it a reliable and durable pick for gardeners.
Further details can be found on The Burgon & Ball Corona ComfortGEL Trowel page.
| Weight | 1.9 kg |
| Overall Length | 31 cm |
| Blade | Stainless steel |
| Handle | ComfortGEL® grip |
| Width | 15 cm |
The Burgon & Ball Corona ComfortGEL Trowel is suitable for various gardening tasks like transplanting, weeding, and planting. You can count on its comfortGEL handle and versatile design to reduce hand fatigue in the long run.
02
Best Premium
Niwaki Moku Trowel
Reasons to Buy
- Light and comfortable
- Durable construction
- Ideal for digging weeds and plants
- Robust and sturdy
- Reputable brand
Reasons to Avoid
- Expensive
- Somewhat small
- Better for light use
On the other hand, gardeners willing to splurge on their tools will get their money’s worth with the Niwaki Moku Trowel. It’s especially perfect for those who value precision and durability. Hand-forged by an expert in Sanjo, this trowel exemplifies the craftsmanship that Japan is renowned for.
At first glance, you’ll be impressed by its carbon steel head and beechwood handle. Its premium blade has a pointed tip and beveled edges for a perfect cut through the soil every time. Plus, its rust-resistant powder coating and hammered finish will guarantee longevity.
Even more, the long, hooked tang protects your hands while working. You’ll also notice the leather hanging strap, which makes storage even simpler.
Why Do We Recommend The Niwaki Moku Trowel?
We recommend the Niwaki Moku Trowel to anyone who wants a premium-quality hand-forged tool they can really count on. It features a carbon steel head and beechwood handle, ensuring durability and comfortable use for gardening enthusiasts.
Find out more on The Niwaki Moku Trowel official page.
| Weight | 2.2 kg |
| Overall Length | 32 cm |
| Blade | Carbon steel |
| Handle | Powder-coated ashwood |
| Width | 73 cm |
The Niwaki Moku Trowel is suitable for light use in conservatories and greenhouses with small to medium-sized plants. It can assist with tasks like weeding, digging in soft soils, and planting.
03
Best For Tough Jobs
Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Trowel
Reasons to Buy
- Durable hardwood handle
- Serrated blade edge for multi-use
- Etched steel end cap
- Ideal for tough or compacted soil
- Includes leather strap
Reasons to Avoid
- Best for smaller hands
If you’re often dealing with tough soils and heavy-duty tasks in the garden, you’ll benefit from the Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Trowel. It’s part of the Traditional Stainless range, which boasts a wide range of durable and reliable gardening tools. The tool lives up to its name with a mirror-polished head, which is also rust-resistant and non-stick for easy cleanup.
Moreover, this trowel is designed for maximum durability and practicality. Its pointed blade allows effortless penetration into even the toughest soil. The serrated edge is even more useful in cutting through stubborn weeds and roots.
The best part? It comes with a 10-year guarantee. You’ll also love its weatherproof hardwood handle that’s built to withstand the elements and offer maximum ergonomics.
Why Do We Recommend The Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Trowel?
The Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Trowel has a mirror-polished stainless steel head, hardwood handle, and etched steel end cap. You’ll be impressed by its ability to work through tough and compacted soils with the help of its serrated edge.
For more product details, visit The Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Trowel page.
| Weight | 0.4 kg |
| Overall Length | 31 cm |
| Blade | Stainless steel |
| Handle | Weatherproof hardwood |
| Width | 8.5 cm |
The Spear & Jackson Stainless Steel Trowel is suitable for various gardening tasks like planting, digging, weeding, and even cutting root systems. Gardeners seeking a durable tool will benefit from its quality construction and features.
04
Best Good Looking
Wilko Carbon Steel Hand Trowel
Reasons to Buy
- Strong carbon steel blade
- Includes leather strap for easy storage
- Looks as good as it performs
- Weatherproof construction
- Super lightweight
Reasons to Avoid
- Not ideal for bigger tasks
- Only available in red
- Can't be stored outside
The Wilko Carbon Steel Hand Trowel is more than just a functioning tool; it’s a sleek and stylish addition to your set of equipment. It’s the best pick for gardeners who appreciate aesthetics without compromising on performance.
Its sleek red design is the perfect balance of style and substance. The head is made from durable carbon steel, while the soft grip handle keeps your hands comfortable. You won’t have to worry about hand and wrist fatigue during extended use.
But there’s more to this exceptional tool than just its visual appeal. It easily meets your everyday gardening needs, whether it’s soil turning, weeding, or transplanting. The trowel is versatile and cost-effective, offering something that checks all the boxes of a professional gardener’s needs.
Why Do We Recommend The Wilko Carbon Steel Hand Trowel?
The Wilko Carbon Steel Hand Trowel prioritises affordability above all, but not by compromising on quality. This budget-friendly tool is made from carbon steel and guarantees comfort and control with the help of its soft rubber grip.
Find out more about this product on The Wilko Carbon Steel Hand Trowel page.
| Weight | 0.2 kg |
| Overall Length | 35 cm |
| Blade | Carbon steel |
| Handle | Ashwood |
| Width | 8.5 cm |
The Wilko Carbon Steel Hand Trowel is suitable for everyday gardening needs, like transplanting, soil turning, weeding, and planting. It boasts an impressive design at an affordable rate to be accessible to beginners.
05
Best for Seedlings
Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel
Reasons to Buy
- Built-in seed counter
- Ideal for small tasks
- Compact build
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Engraved measurements
Reasons to Avoid
- Not meant for bigger tasks
- Time-consuming operation
- Not good for tough soil
Here’s a tool that specifically caters to gardeners working with delicate seedlings. Consider the Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel, which offers so much more than meets the eye. It’s the ideal tool for precision planting.
Its best feature is definitely the built-in seed counter. You can use it to guarantee accuracy and consistent spacing while sowing seeds. It’s a game changer for anyone who wants perfectly organised rows of plants in their garden.
Other than that, it’s a traditional trowel that digs small holes, transplants seedlings, and tends to your garden. You can count on durability thanks to its carbon fibre construction.
Another great feature of the trowel is the English and metric measurements engraved into the blade. The non-fading and -eroding design ensures precise planting depth and spacing every time.
Why Do We Recommend The Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel?
We recommend the Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel for its ease of use and unique design catered to precise seed planting. It features a built-in seed counter and measurements for accurate planting depth and spacing, while the carbon fibre construction ensures durability.
Visit The Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel page for more product details.
| Weight | 0.2 kg |
| Overall Length | 29.8 cm |
| Blade | Rust-proof FibreComp |
| Handle | Plastic |
| Width | 5 cm |
The Fiskars Hand Seed Trowel is suitable for those who want to ensure proper seed placement and spacing for their plants. It’s a convenient tool for sowing seeds, digging small holes, and creating a healthy garden space.
Complete Buyer’s Guide for the Best Garden Hand Trowels
Consider these factors when picking a hand trowel for your garden
- Size and Weight: If you only need to get smaller tasks done, go for a compact and lightweight hand trowel. Larger and heavier models may be more suitable for demanding tasks and tough soils.
- Handle: The right garden hand trowel will reduce strain on your wrist during extended use. It should have a wooden, rubber, or cushioned grip for maximum comfort and control.
- Material: Make sure your garden hand trowel is made from durable materials that can withstand the test of time and the elements. Great examples include carbon steel and stainless steel blades to prevent rusting.
- Blade: Garden hand trowels come in many different blade shapes. Whether pointed or rounded, you'll find one that's catered to your digging, weeding, and planting needs.
FAQs
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about garden hand trowels.
How long your garden trowel lasts depends on its quality, intended use, and maintenance. In general, you can expect it to last 5 to 10 years or even more with the right care.
Most garden hand trowels are best suited for light digging in well-prepared soil. Still, you can find some robust carbon steel models that can slice through rocky or hard soil.
Garden hand trowels have scoop-shaped blades to plant and transplant bulbs or roofs, while hand forks have prongs to loosen soil and uproot weeds.
