Garden Picks: Versatile Tools for Digging and Breaking Ground

Picks are heavy-duty garden tools for breaking compacted soil, cutting through roots and preparing ground for planting. Choosing the right pick saves effort on tough soil tasks.

What to consider when selecting a pick

Look at head design, weight and handle length. A balanced head with one pointed end and one chisel or adze style end covers a range of tasks. Handles made from durable hardwood or reinforced composites reduce vibration and improve control. Safety features like non-slip grips are helpful when working in wet conditions.

Popular pick types and uses

• Traditional pickaxe: for breaking hard, compacted soil and small rocks.
• Mattock-pick hybrid: combines digging and chopping functions for roots and sod.
• Hand pick: smaller version for flowerbeds and tight spaces.
• Hoe-pick combo: useful for preparing trenches and edging.

Use picks for heavy-duty preparation rather than delicate planting. Maintain the tool by keeping the head clean and sharpened and checking the handle for splinters or cracks. If you only need occasional heavy-duty work, consider hiring elevated quality tools or watching for clearance or rental options to limit expense.