Dandelion Digging Tools

Tools have been specially designed to help gardeners cope with dandelions.

Many homeowners detest dandelions and make the weed's removal a priority. While not practical for large-scale infestations, hand digging is an option for lawns with a small number of isolated weeds. All the dandelion digging tools feature a long shaft and a sharp edge. The University of Nebraska at Lincoln specifies cutting the tap root at least 4 inches below ground level to prevent regrowth. A tool with a strong metal shaft and a sharp cutting edge is the most efficient and durable.

Diggit

The Diggit employs the long shaft and sharp edges of all dandelion digging tools. Its soft bright red handle is easy on the hands -- and eyes if left lying in the grass. The blade is marked in both inches and centimeters to help measure the depth. The short-handled tool is used with the operator working at ground level.

Clint's Super Tool Dandy Weeder

Gardeners can stand while using Clint's Super Tool Dandy Weeder. The pointed shaft of the tool is mounted on a handle similar to a short-handled shovel. A foot placed on the cross member just above the digging-tool portion drives the blade into the ground. Then pressing down on the handle raises the point of the tool, cuts the root and removes the plant.

True Temper Deluxe Dandelion Weeder

The True Temper line of tools is marketed by Ace Hardware. The Dandelion Weeder is a long-handled tool with a V-shaped point. The tool is pushed into the ground alongside the dandelion root. The handle is then pushed down creating a lever action of the tool that raises the V-shaped cutting edge. If properly placed the cutting edge severs the dandelion root well below ground level. The weed is then pulled up by handle.

Rittenhouse Stainless Steel Dandelion Weeder

For gardeners who like a little shine to their tools, Rittenhouse offers a Stainless Steel Dandelion Weeder. It also features a polished hardwood handle. The business end is a V-shaped cutting edge. The Dandelion Weeder measures about a foot long and weighs just over a half a pound.

References

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Dandelions
• Diggit Inc.: Weeders
• Clint's Dandy Digger: Clint's Super Tool Dandy Weeder
• Ace Hardware: True Temper® Deluxe Dandelion Weeder
• Rittenhouse: Stainless Steel Trowel, Cultivator and Weeders