Ever tried to get rid of stubborn grass only to find yourself wrestling with the wrong tool? It’s a common frustration! Whether you’re planning a new garden bed, laying sod, or just want to reclaim your lawn, digging up grass can feel like a major chore. The real headache often starts when you realize not all shovels are created equal for this specific job. Choosing the wrong one means more sweat, less progress, and a whole lot of wasted effort.
But what if you could make this task significantly easier? This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the best shovels designed to tackle grass removal efficiently, so you can stop battling your lawn and start enjoying your outdoor space. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a shovel that makes digging up grass a breeze, not a burden.
Our Top 5 Shovels To Dig Up Grass Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Shovels To Dig Up Grass Detailed Reviews
1. UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel with Lightweight Stainless Steel Construction for Garden and Campsite Use While Hiking
Rating: 8.7/10
The UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel is a handy tool for anyone who loves the outdoors or spends time in the garden. It’s made of strong stainless steel, so it won’t break easily. This shovel folds up small, making it easy to carry wherever you go. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just need to do some gardening, this shovel can help.
What We Like:
- It’s super lightweight, weighing only 5.2 ounces, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The stainless steel construction makes it very durable and reliable for many tasks.
- It’s incredibly convenient because it folds down to half its size for easy storage and transport.
- This shovel is ready for anything, from gardening to digging a campfire pit.
- It’s also useful for clearing rocks, removing plants, and even scaling fish!
- The stainless steel is strong enough that you could even heat it up and use it to cook food.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the smaller size might not be ideal for digging very large holes or moving a lot of dirt quickly.
- The folding mechanism, while convenient, might require occasional cleaning to ensure smooth operation over time.
The UST U-Dig-It Folding Shovel is a versatile and dependable tool. It’s a great addition to any outdoor kit or gardening shed.
2. GZTFPQ Bend-Proof Garden Trowel – Heavy Duty Polished Stainless Steel – Rust Resistant Oversized Garden Hand Shovel for Quicker Work – Digs Through Rocky/Heavy soils – Comfort Grip (1)
Rating: 8.7/10
Digging in the garden just got a whole lot easier with the GZTFPQ Bend-Proof Garden Trowel. This tough trowel is designed to tackle even the hardest jobs. Its polished stainless steel construction means it won’t bend or rust, making it a reliable tool for any gardener. The oversized design helps you work faster, and it’s built to handle rocky or heavy soils without a problem. Plus, the comfort grip makes it easy to hold, even during long gardening sessions.
What We Like:
- Made from strong, polished aluminum alloy that resists rust and breaking.
- It’s lightweight and a good size, making it easy for women and girls to use.
- The bright green handle is easy to spot in your garden.
- It’s not just for gardening; it’s also great for camping, metal detecting, and gold panning.
- The smooth tip is safe and won’t hurt your hands.
- It’s a practical gift for anyone who loves gardening.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions “polished aluminum alloy” but the title says “polished stainless steel.” This could be confusing for customers.
- While it’s described as “oversized,” the actual dimensions (10×3.34 inches) might be smaller than some users expect for an “oversized” tool.
This trowel is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable digging tool. It’s built to last and ready for all your outdoor adventures.
3. Soil Scoop
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet your new favorite garden buddy! This versatile plastic soil scoop is designed to make your planting and gardening tasks a breeze. From filling large pots to scooping compost, this tool handles it all with ease. Its thoughtful design and durable construction mean you can rely on it for many gardening seasons to come.
What We Like:
- Planting Power: It’s perfect for filling pots with soil, especially for larger plants, succulents, and potted flowers.
- Easy to Handle: The ergonomic handle feels great in your hand. It even has a hole so you can hang it up for easy storage.
- Smart Design: The square shape and flat bottom help it sit neatly without tipping over. It’s built tough to resist wear and tear, and it can even help you sift soil.
- Built to Last: Made from strong plastic, this scoop can handle being dropped. It’s great for scooping pet food, spreading bedding for small animals, or even salting icy walkways in winter.
- Garden and Home Helper: This scoop isn’t just for the garden; it’s super useful indoors too, like for changing cat litter trays.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, it might not be the best choice for extremely heavy-duty digging in very hard soil.
- The plastic material, while good for general use, may not be as rigid as metal tools for certain tough tasks.
This multi-purpose scoop is a fantastic addition to any gardener’s toolkit. It’s a practical and reliable tool that makes many common yard and home chores much simpler.
4. Mulch Master™ Rake Shovel – Oversized Scoop with Built-in Rake Claw – Move 4X More Mulch – Adjustable Handle – Made in USA
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of endless trips and sore backs when spreading mulch? The Mulch Master™ Rake Shovel is here to change your landscaping game. This innovative tool combines a powerful oversized scoop with a handy rake claw, making it easier than ever to tackle your gardening projects. Get ready to spread more mulch in less time, all while staying comfortable.
What We Like:
- Move 4X More Mulch: The extra-large scoop means fewer trips from the pile to your garden beds, saving you valuable time.
- Built-In Rake Claw: Break up clumps of mulch and spread it evenly around your plants without needing a separate tool.
- Adjustable Handle: The telescoping handle and comfortable grip adjust to your height, reducing strain on your back.
- Safe for Your Yard: The smooth design glides over grass and garden beds, protecting them from damage.
- Made in the USA: Built with tough materials and American craftsmanship for lasting durability.
What Could Be Improved:
- The rake claw might not be ideal for very fine or wet materials.
- While durable, the plastic scoop could potentially crack under extreme stress.
This Mulch Master™ Rake Shovel is a smart investment for anyone who gardens. It’s designed to make your landscaping tasks faster, easier, and more comfortable.
5. Garden Trowels – NEWGF Heavy-Duty Manganese Steel Super Garden Hand Trowels-Dig
Rating: 9.4/10
Introducing the NEWGF Heavy-Duty Manganese Steel Super Garden Hand Trowels! These trowels are built to make your gardening tasks easier and more enjoyable. They’re perfect for digging, shoveling, and planting, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out. The sleek black and red design looks great in any garden shed.
What We Like:
- The handle is really comfortable. It has a special rubber coating that helps you grip it well and keeps your hand from slipping. It also supports your wrist nicely, even when you work for a long time.
- These trowels are tough! They won’t loosen, bend, or break when you’re digging. They’re made to last through any kind of weather or soil.
- You won’t have to worry about rust. The surface is treated to resist it, so you can just wipe it clean after use. It will look good and work well for many years.
- The blade is super sharp and strong. It cuts through hard dirt, packed soil, and even tough roots with no problem. It’s also great for rocky spots.
- They are just the right size and weight. You can easily carry them in your backpack or tool bag. They’re perfect for hiking, traveling, or just your everyday gardening.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the grip is excellent, a slightly longer handle might offer even better leverage for very tough digging jobs.
- The “razor-sharp” blade, while effective, might require careful handling and storage to prevent accidental nicks.
Overall, these NEWGF garden trowels are a fantastic addition to any gardener’s toolkit. They combine durability, comfort, and excellent performance.
Choosing the Right Shovel to Dig Up Grass
Tackling a lawn renovation or preparing a garden bed? Digging up grass can be a tough job. The right shovel makes all the difference. This guide helps you find the best tool for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Blade Shape
The blade is the most important part. For digging up sod, a flat, straight edge is best. This shape slices cleanly under the grass roots. It makes lifting out sod pieces easier.
Handle Design
A comfortable handle prevents blisters. Look for ergonomic grips. Long handles offer better leverage. Short handles give you more control in tight spaces.
Durability
You want a shovel that lasts. Strong materials and good construction are key. A well-made shovel won’t bend or break easily.
Important Materials
Steel Blades
Most good shovels have steel blades. Stainless steel resists rust. Carbon steel is strong but can rust if not cared for. Look for tempered steel. This makes the blade harder and less likely to chip.
Handle Materials
Wood handles are classic. They are strong and comfortable. Fiberglass handles are lighter and more durable. They don’t splinter like wood can. Avoid plastic handles for heavy-duty digging.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Blade Thickness
A thicker blade is stronger. It can handle tough soil and thick roots without bending. Thin blades might work for light jobs but can fail on tough tasks.
Rivets and Welds
Check how the handle attaches to the blade. Strong rivets or welds mean a secure connection. Poor connections can lead to the shovel breaking.
Sharpening
A sharp blade cuts through soil and roots better. Some shovels come pre-sharpened. Others can be sharpened with a file. A dull shovel makes the job much harder.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good grass-digging shovel should feel balanced in your hands. It should be easy to push into the ground. Lifting sod should not require excessive force.
These shovels are perfect for:
- Removing old lawns for new landscaping.
- Creating garden beds.
- Edging pathways.
- Digging out stubborn weeds with deep roots.
A poorly chosen shovel can lead to frustration and a longer work time. Investing in a quality tool makes the job much more manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of shovel for digging up grass?
A: A flat-bladed shovel, often called a spade or a sod cutter, is best for digging up grass. The flat edge slices under the sod cleanly.
Q: Should I choose a long or short handle?
A: A long handle provides more leverage and is good for larger areas. A shorter handle offers more control for smaller or tighter spots.
Q: What material is best for the shovel blade?
A: High-quality steel, especially tempered carbon steel or stainless steel, is ideal for durability and rust resistance.
Q: How important is the handle material?
A: Very important for comfort and durability. Fiberglass or strong wood handles are generally preferred over plastic.
Q: Can I use a regular garden shovel?
A: While you can, a regular garden shovel with a pointed or rounded tip is not as efficient. A flat-bladed spade cuts sod more effectively.
Q: How do I maintain my grass-digging shovel?
A: Clean the blade after each use to remove soil and moisture. You can oil the blade to prevent rust, especially if it’s carbon steel.
Q: What is “tempered steel”?
A: Tempered steel is steel that has been heated and cooled in a specific way to make it stronger and more resistant to bending or breaking.
Q: Is a sod cutter different from a spade?
A: A sod cutter is a specialized tool designed specifically for cutting strips of sod. A flat-bladed spade can perform a similar function for smaller areas.
Q: How thick should the blade be?
A: A blade thickness of around 14-gauge steel is a good indicator of strength and durability for digging up grass.
Q: Can I sharpen a dull shovel?
A: Yes, you can sharpen a shovel blade using a metal file. A sharp blade makes digging much easier.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!