Spades

About Spades

A spade is an essential garden tool distinguished by its narrow, flat blade designed for cutting into turf, breaking hard ground, and moving soil with precision. Unlike shovels which are optimised purely for scooping and shifting loose materials, spades feature a sharp bottom edge that allows them to slice through compacted earth and roots efficiently. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of spades from trusted brands including Bulldog, Draper, Spear and Jackson, and Fiskars, catering to both professional landscapers and keen gardeners.

The collection at MyToolShed includes digging spades for preparing large areas, compact border spades for confined spaces and raised beds, and specialist designs such as Irish spades with their characteristically narrow blades and extended handles. Available in various materials from traditional ash and fibreglass handles to stainless steel and carbon steel blades, there's a spade suited to every task, physique, and budget.

Applications

• Professional Landscapers: Ground preparation, turf cutting, bed edging, and planting large specimens
• Groundskeepers: Estate maintenance, border definition, and general cultivation
• Gardeners and Horticulturists: Soil turning, transplanting, dividing perennials, and preparing vegetable plots
• Allotment Holders: Breaking new ground, creating trenches, and seasonal soil preparation
• General DIY Enthusiasts: Garden makeovers, laying patios, installing drainage, and landscaping projects
• Agricultural Workers: Smallholding maintenance, livestock area management, and general farmyard tasks

Choosing The Right Spades

Spade Type: Digging spades feature larger blades (typically 290 x 190mm) for maximum soil displacement, whilst border spades have smaller blades (approximately 240 x 140mm) offering better manoeuvrability in tight spaces and reduced physical strain for smaller users.

Blade Material: Stainless steel blades resist rust and soil adhesion, making them ideal for clay soils, though they're less impact-resistant than carbon steel. Solid forged steel blades provide maximum durability for breaking hard ground and removing roots, whilst remaining heavier to use over extended periods.

Handle Material and Length: Ash handles offer traditional flexibility and shock absorption, whilst fibreglass and composite materials reduce weight significantly. YD or T-grips suit different digging techniques, and handle length should be selected based on user height – taller gardeners benefit from longer shafts to prevent back strain.

Physical Considerations: MyToolShed.co.uk recommends assessing your physical strength and typical task duration when selecting a spade. Lighter materials reduce fatigue during prolonged use, making them particularly suitable for older gardeners or those with mobility considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a digging spade and a border spade?

Border spades feature smaller blades and shorter handles compared to standard digging spades, making them easier to control in confined areas such as flower borders, raised beds, and between established plants. They're also lighter and less tiring for extended use.

Why do Irish spades have narrower blades?

Irish spades were developed specifically for Ireland's harder, more compacted soil conditions. The narrower blade concentrates force over a smaller area, whilst the longer handle provides increased leverage, making it easier to penetrate tough ground that would resist a standard spade.

How do I maintain my spade?

Clean soil from the blade after each use, particularly with carbon steel models to prevent rust. Periodically sharpen the cutting edge with a file, oil wooden handles to prevent splitting, and store in a dry location. Stainless steel blades require minimal maintenance but still benefit from regular cleaning.