It is July and the broad leaf, ground vetch, clover and other assorted weeds are taking up residence in my gardens. Gratefully, my formula for timing of my spring clean up, organic mulch applications and fertilization of my shrubs and perennials have deterred a good deal of nuisance weeds. This dry hot, weather brings out weeds that illustrate “survival of the fittest” in the garden environment. Broad leaf migrating from turf areas into my bed edges can be a real challenge. I have discovered a tool that I consider” my wizard’s wand” for weeds!
Several years ago I was sent a sample of a new weeding tool: The Cobrahead. This has become, hands down, my ultimate garden tool! I have added the long handled cultivator as well as the short handled weeder to my arsenal of “Wizardly Wand-Like” tools to maintain my gardens. The original cultivator makes quick work of planting and transplanting my perennials. The long handled cultivator keeps my garden bed edges neat and free of turf encroachment without stressing my back
It is a tool I can count on for being lightweight, rust proof and durable. The steel forged head can be sharpened as needed to cut through turf roots, dig up taproots and make quick automated sprinkler line repairs. We have even used this tool for setting pavers in many of our hardscape projects. Last week installing a 3 ft. stone base along a fence line, we relied upon the tool to cut into the incredibly dry soil (clay-like due to our dry weather conditions) The homeowner had a commercial nylon erosion/seeding net installed under the fence and this was the only tool that allowed us to dig the trench needed to install the edging. Our gas powered tools tangled in the nylon deer netting-like fabric. (don’t get me started on the need to use common sense in applying commercial materials on residential properties)
For years I used the original Cobrahead Weeder tool. But I had lost many on job sites due to my habit of placing the tool in the back pocket of my gardener’s pants. The length of the tool would inevitably cause it to slip out of my pocket. So this year I wrote the company asking if they had developed a tool holder the would help me. Their kind reply indicated they have been looking into this for years and not come up with a design/American Made product they could support. But they sent me the short handled weeder as an alternative. I will say that has eliminated by annual tool loss thus far. The shorter handle gives a better balance for weeding. If I can’t convince you of this tool’s value in garden maintenance, check out Cobrahead website and some of their common sense application videos:
https://www.cobrahead.com/garden-videos/
The Cobrahead Tool is the one tool I consistently recommend in my garden workshops around the region. Have you tried the tool? Would love to hear about your applications and experiences. As always, keeping common sense and sustainability at the core of all my garden practices. Check out the Garden Goddess Sense and Sustainability website for more regional garden tips and upcoming workshops: www.gardengoddesssenseandsustainability.com