Digging forks - an alternative tool for gardening and vegetable gardening

When performing gardening work, a pitchfork is a must. The models of these garden tools differ significantly from each other, so they are chosen according to their purpose.

Pitchfork. (Photo used from tehnikaportal.ru)

Purpose of the tool

In terms of versatility, a fork is practically in no way inferior to a bayonet shovel; moreover, at times the scope of work overlaps. Moreover, such a product sometimes shows much better results. The design is often used to carry out:

Loading and unloading operations. With this tool, anyone can easily fill a trailer with hay or debris.
Forks show good results in digging up the soil, as they are light in weight, which is why the worker will not be constantly tired and, therefore, will need less time to cultivate the site.
Another advantage is that soil and clay do not stick to the teeth, which greatly simplifies operations. In addition, it is thanks to the teeth that a person will practically not feel resistance when entering the ground.
Collecting root vegetables with a pitchfork is more efficient and convenient than with a shovel.
You can dig up potatoes and beets faster if you use this tool. In addition, a person will not feel any serious load, because all the earth will pass through the teeth.
If handled carefully, sharp elements will not cause any harm to the plant. But a shovel, on the contrary, is capable of cutting potatoes or other root vegetables in half.
Also, with the help of this product, a person can easily collect garbage, aerate or loosen the land. The device is completely universal, therefore it is considered indispensable for any household.

But it is important to understand that the product has sharp teeth, so it is better not to give them to children, as it is dangerous. The design of the tool is quite different, which will help you choose the most effective option for performing a particular task.

What are the advantages of garden forks

During the process of rolling soil, practically no soil particles are poured onto the teeth. As a result, the speed of the work process increases several times.

Such garden tools can be used for digging up crops of potatoes, beets, and carrots. Unlike a shovel, a garden fork does not damage root crops.

Thanks to this tool, it is convenient to carry out seasonal aeration of the lawn. The product removes up to 85% of dry organic residues. During mechanical action, plant roots are not damaged.

Material of manufacture

In most cases, the working part is made of welded or forged steel:

The first option differs in that it has only two solid teeth - they are located on the sides. The rest are welded using a special apparatus. When purchasing this option, you should pay attention to the welding seam. If it is bad, the product will break after a couple of days of use.
Forged models are made from a single piece of metal. They are highly durable and reliable. Therefore, a person will be able to subject the device to serious loads and not be afraid that it will break.

The most commonly used grade is the one with the highest carbon content. Also, some manufacturers apply an anti-corrosion layer, which increases the service life of the product. Sometimes stainless steel is used instead of carbon steel, as well as tool steel. Stores sell products made of high-strength plastic, despite this the product has not received wide demand.

When making cuttings, various tree species are used, for example, birch, ash, oak, and the like. However, some people do not like this decision as it affects their weight. In this case, it is recommended to pay attention to products made of plastic or aluminum alloy. The first option is low cost, but will break under significant loads. The second one will last a long period and easily perform various tasks, but its price is twice as high.

Popular varieties

Pitchforks have always been in great demand, but in our time, even they are being modernized. Therefore, some types are capable of performing many times more tasks. In addition, the product has a convenient working part, even despite the presence of teeth that are located at the end.

There are dozens of types of instruments, but the following are considered popular:

Classic. The product is a 4-prong pointed fork that is used for loosening the earth. But they are also actively used for digging up various areas. The diameter of the sharp elements is 5-10 mm, while at the ends the value is 2-4 mm. Thanks to this sharpness, the product easily penetrates the soil. The maximum length of the teeth is 35 cm, with the distance varying from 8 to 10 cm. In addition to this design, there are 5-tooth variations.
Digging. A distinctive feature of this option is massiveness and reliability. This allows you to withstand various loads. It is best to use the tool for aerating lawns or digging up soil. For greater convenience during work, some manufacturers equip the tool with a special support for the foot.
Ball options have found active use during harvesting, as well as its overload. The advantage of this design is that there is a small metal ball at the end of each sharp element. Its diameter varies from 8 to 12 mm. It is easier to use such a product than shovels, since there is no serious load.
Combined models are distinguished by the fact that they are an ergonomic hybrid of two tools (shovel and fork). The ends of the teeth are connected to each other using a special knife. Often this option is used to dig up land that is overgrown with weeds. The convenient design effectively goes inside and cuts the roots that interfere with digging. Therefore, a person will not feel any serious stress.
Household forks are used for quick and thorough cleaning/carrying of manure. Thanks to them, it will be easier for a person to scatter it over the beds. Features of this design include a massive design, as well as curved teeth that resemble a bucket. All this helps you do your work more efficiently.
Harvesting models are characterized by small and fine teeth, which are manufactured in various shapes. The main purpose is to cleanse the area of hay, grass and humus. In special cases, this device can briefly replace a shovel. But the forks cannot be subjected to loads, otherwise they will break.
But if a person needs to buy a product only for transporting manure or dried grass, it is recommended to pay attention to hay models. A special feature of the design is the elongated working part (70 cm). In this case, the number of teeth varies from 3 to 5. This solution allows you to transfer as much vegetation or humus as possible in one approach.
Models with a telescopic handle will be useful for those who constantly go out to clean the area, but there is no space in the car to transport the tool. This option is made of durable aluminum and plastic. The average cost of execution is 5 thousand rubles.
Lightweight specimens will be a suitable solution for women. Moreover, despite the light weight, the product is quite durable. An aluminum cutting was used to make the product.

What to pay attention to

When a person is considering this or that option, it is important to pay attention to some nuances. This will make it easier to choose a design. Of course, each fork has a different purpose, but there are general parameters that will help you find the right option:

First you need to decide on the width of the working part. If you do not plan to carry out any complex work, then it is recommended to pay attention to narrow models; they are ideal for flower beds or flower beds. But when cleaning the lawn, you should pay attention to wide models, as they will cope with the task more efficiently.
We must not forget about the number of teeth. As mentioned above, models with 4 teeth are considered the best option. However, if a highly specialized option is chosen, for example, for loosening the soil, you should pay attention to models with 3 teeth. The shape of the sharp element can be different, it also depends on the type of work being carried out.
Material of manufacture. Here, it’s simply better to immediately discard models made of cheap steel, as they will quickly break.
The cutting must be strong enough to withstand various loads. Therefore, it is better to avoid designs with cheap plastic. Additional processing of wooden products in the form of paint or varnish is also welcome. Because it will increase the durability of the tool. If the user is looking for a lightweight model, attention is paid to aluminum cuttings.

Using a homemade miracle shovel

Enthusiastic designers developed a project for a homemade device for digging earth of an original design. According to reviews from summer residents who have tested the unit, it is capable of digging and loosening even very dense soil with minimal human effort. The following materials will be required for the manufacture of equipment:

The basis of the pins is reinforcement .
Square pipe as the base of the forks, cross-section - 25x28 mm. A fragment of the same pipe will be needed to make a pedal.
Steel sheet 25x50 cm for the scarf.
hinge . A garage hinge cut on both sides will do.
Equipment for welding work.

Forks made from sharpened pieces of reinforcement and a piece of pipe are welded to the handle of the miracle shovel for digging earth; the angle of inclination of the handle is 30 degrees. A jumper is welded in the middle. The pitch of the teeth is 10 cm, the total width of the fork blade is 80 cm. The pedal is attached on a hinge to the handle. For rigidity, a gusset made of steel sheet is added.

There are several variations of the tool. Some models provide adjustment of the tilt of the handle and the height of the product.

Top best models for tillage

Artinsky plant 63804 (132 cm)

A reliable model that is lightweight and comfortable. The product is intended for soil cultivation, and the process is much more convenient, since nothing sticks or gets stuck. There is a convenient wooden handle that can withstand high loads. The teeth are made of reliable steel, which is additionally treated with special paint. Product weight – 1.5 kg.

The average cost is 380 rubles.

forks Artinsky plant 63804 (132 cm)

Advantages:

Convenience;
Value for money;
Reliability;
Long service life.
Efficiency.

Flaws:

Not detected.

SKRAB 28131 (112 cm)

A strong and durable option that is useful for tillage. The handle is made of ordinary wood, there is no protective coating. Therefore, a person needs to take care of this on his own so that there are no problems in the future. The shape of the teeth is flat, which affects ergonomics. The total length is 112 cm, so some may find them a bit short.

Sold at a price: from 1,430 rubles.

forks SKRAB 28131 (112 cm)

Advantages:

Attractive appearance;
Suitable option for loosening;
Convenience;
Long service life;
The working part is made of high-carbon hardened steel.

Flaws:

Not found.

FISKARS Solid 1026687 (122 cm)

If a person requires reliable forks that will loosen the soil efficiently and quickly, it is recommended to pay attention to this option. The total length of the tool is 122 cm, while its width is 17.5 cm. The comfortable handle ensures ergonomics for the entire time of use. The total weight is 1.9 kg, which is a good result.

The average cost is 1,060 rubles.

forks FISKARS Solid 1026687 (122 cm)

Advantages:

High-quality production of the working element;
Maximum convenience when loosening the soil;
Despite the fact that the handle is made of plastic, it is quite reliable;
Optimal price.

Flaws:

Not found.

GARDENA ErgoLine 17013-20 (117 cm)

An expensive model that is made of durable plastic and steel. The working part has a good coating that does not wear off due to intensive use. For greater convenience, the manufacturer has equipped the handle with a handle. The length of the device is 117 cm, of course, this is not much, but many people like this solution. There are 4 flat teeth. With this tool, tillage will become easier.

The average price is 3,000 rubles.

forks GARDENA ErgoLine 17013-20 (117 cm)

Advantages:

Attractive appearance;
High quality manufacturing;
Efficiency;
Comfortable handle;
Goes well into the ground;
Reliable plastic.

Flaws:

Not found.

Classification

There are many options for classifying garden forks - by the shape of the teeth, by materials, width, etc. One of the clearest ways to divide these tools into groups is to classify them by purpose. Gardeners use pitchforks for different purposes: caring for flowers, digging garden beds, spreading compost.

Depending on the “area of specialization,” pitchforks are divided into three large groups:

for tillage;
compost/manure;
hay

Popular compost forks

PALISAD 63802 (125 cm)

Relatively inexpensive pitchforks that will appeal to many gardeners. With their help it is convenient to transfer manure and work with compost. There are 4 triangular teeth 28 cm long, which has a positive effect on efficiency. The handle is made of durable wood; of course, there is no complex coating here, but this is an advantage. Because the buyer will be able to evaluate the external condition. The working part is made of special steel, which is resistant to corrosion.

Sold at a price: from 900 rubles.

forks PALISAD 63802 (125 cm)

Advantages:

High quality manufacturing;
Attractive appearance;
Convenient handle on the handle;
Sufficient strength;
Value for money.

Flaws:

Not found.

COURSE 76995 (152 cm)

A long model that will be a suitable solution for every gardener. There are 4 teeth, which are distinguished by their reliability. The wooden handle guarantees convenience for the entire period of use. Despite the length, the weight of the tool is 1.65 kg, which is a good indicator. But the most important advantage of this option is the low cost, which is 290 rubles. It is important to understand here that the product is fully worth the price, so you should not raise your expectations.

forks KURS 76995 (152 cm)

Advantages:

Optimal length;
Good strength indicators;
Efficiency;
Durable teeth;
Convenience.

Flaws:

There are no significant ones.

FIT 76992 (155.3 cm)

Inexpensive composting forks with round tines. The handle is made of durable wood, but there is no external covering. The working part is made of steel and has good corrosion protection. The total weight of the product is 1.5 kg, so it will be easy for a person to work with the tool. The length is 155 cm, which is also considered a good solution, since a person can easily adjust the forks to his own height.

The average cost is 499 rubles.

forks FIT 76992 (155.3 cm)

Advantages:

Good price;
Quite strong teeth;
Reliable wooden handle;
Weight;
Convenience.

Flaws:

Not found.

Geolia 120 cm, steel

Good composting forks that are suitable for simple tasks. If you plan to carry out long-term aeration, then you should refuse the purchase in advance, since the model will not bring any positive results. Although the teeth are made of steel, it is important to understand that at such a price no one will equip the product with high-quality raw materials, since this is not economically profitable. Also, we must not forget about the handle, which is made of plastic. If you subject it to serious loads, the structure will break in half.

The average cost is 570 rubles.

Geolia forks 120 cm, steel

Advantages:

Attractive appearance;
Good build;
Sufficient strength for simple operations;
Efficiency.

Flaws:

Not found.

Advice from professionals

In order for the construction to go like clockwork and not have to regret it later, it is better to take the advice of experienced craftsmen who have made more than a dozen forks. Let's take a closer look at what they recommend to us.

Don't try to make more antlers
because you won't be able to dig after frost, which will sometimes be necessary, especially when fertilizing the soil before winter.
Do not use pine - this is a very weak material for this case. It is better to take a holder that is heavy but strong.
It is recommended to immediately make the seat for the holder a little wider, to accommodate the large diameter of the holder, and then adjust it. It can be easily compacted if the cutting becomes too wobbly. But, as practice shows, the holder is never thick. The bigger, the better.
There is never too much impregnation. Forks for the garden must be completely protected from corrosion, so you can apply impregnation 2-3 times to maximally protect the tool from biological corrosion and moisture.

If you follow these recommendations and make the tool as described above, the hay fork will turn out quite well and will serve you for decades. It is better to store in a dry place, since even with good protection, corrosion will attack over time.

Rating of reliable hay models

Bellota for hay collection

High-quality and durable forks, which are made of high-quality steel, and the teeth are completely forged, which has a positive effect on the reliability of the tool. Anti-corrosion protection of the working element from rapid damage. In addition, the product does not break or become deformed from frequent use, which is an additional advantage. The ergonomic design makes it easy to operate the tool without chafing your palms.

The average cost is 3,800 rubles.

Bellota forks for collecting hay

Advantages:

Attractive appearance;
Ergonomics;
High quality manufacturing;
Forged teeth;
Reliability.

Flaws:

High price.

SIBRTECH (63807)

Comfortable long forks, which are made of medium carbon steel. Therefore, you should not use the product for complex work, because they will break and leave only negative impressions. It is best to use models for cleaning areas, but even here you should not overload the tool.

The average cost is 315 rubles.

forks Classic SIBRTECH (63807)

Advantages:

Low cost;
High quality manufacturing;
Reliability;
Attractive appearance;
Convenience.

Flaws:

Cannot be subjected to complex work.

Classic TORNADO (TORNADIKA)

A good option from a well-known manufacturer, which is suitable for working in the garden. The teeth are forged, which is an advantage as they can withstand higher loads. The model is suitable for carrying hay, compost, etc. Weight – 1.4 kg, which allows us to classify the product as lightweight. For the manufacture of the working part, high-carbon steel grade 45 was used, which has a positive effect on durability.

The average price is 615 rubles.

forks Classic TORNADO (TORNADIKA)

Advantages:

High strength, since the handle is made of metal;
Reliable working part;
Light weight;
Forged teeth.

Flaws:

Not found.