Things You'll Need:
- A digging shovel with a comfortable handle
- Garden trimmers for trimming tangled roots
- Work gloves to prevent blisters
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Step 1
First you'll need to make sure there are no water, electrical, or other utility lines under the spot where you intend to dig. Give your utility companies a call.
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Step 2
Mark the approximate area your hole will cover by marking the corners with sticks, or drawing the outline of the hole in the dirt.
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Step 3
On the edges of the hole working inward, step on your shovel blade as you force it straight down into the earth.
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Step 4
Lift the dirt up and away. Throw all the dirt on the same mound nearby your hole. Don't throw the dirt through the air. Instead, let it fall off your shovel onto the dirt pile.
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Step 5
Try to keep the edges of the hole as straight down as possible. It's a natural tendency to have the hole get narrower as you dig down. Try to avoid this by keeping your shovel blade pointing straight down as you cut the edges of the hole.
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Step 6
If you encounter large stones, dig them out with your hands. Place them nearby your dirt pile.
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Step 7
If you encounter roots that tangle in your shovel, cut through them with your garden trimmers.
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Step 8
Holes can be dangerous. Use common sense. Follow the warnings below this article and be aware of any other regional warnings or dangers.
