This unique flat bladed hoe/cultivator lets you loosen soil without too much disturbance. It doesn’t turn over soil like a spade so any organisms thriving in it are left in relative peace. The shape is also ideal for making seed drills and planting seedlings.

As it’s effective but fairly low impact it’s perfect for permaculture, organic and no-dig gardeners, or those looking to adopt a more nature-friendly approach.

Made of 5mm thick copper alloy with blades on each side, the head is nice and narrow so you can easily get to weeds between your plants or veg rows. The head is wedged onto a wooden shaft that tapers toward the end and is riveted in place to keep it extra secure.

The end of the handle is slightly curved to give you a good grip for leverage or drawing it back through the soil.

These tools are traditionally handmade by a small manufacturer in Slovenia from copper alloy and fitted with shaped ash handles. A coating of linseed oil will help nourish and protect the wood. Supplied with a 12-year guarantee on metal parts (2 years for the handle).

Please note: subtle variations in finish from tool to tool mean each will have its own unique character.

Measurements:
W16.5cm x L128cm
Weight 1.29kg

About copper tools

A little bit fancy and recherché, copper tools are all the motivation you need to tackle the garden. A treat to look at and gleaming among the borders, impossible to misplace.

They’re a favourite among organic and biodynamic gardeners, including the 'guru of no dig’ Charles Dowding and biomimicry pioneer Viktor Schauberger, whose experiments found copper tools to boost plant health and increase crop yields.

First and foremost they’re a joy to use. Copper is low friction and enduringly sharp, so the tools glide through soil (even the rough stuff). One gardener we know said it makes other tools “feel like using a spoon”.

Endurance is another big plus. They’re rustproof and will last for years, protected by the patina that appears on the surface. Like muscle, copper alloys get stronger with use so the tools toughen up as you work them. Rough treatment won’t faze them as they’re flexible and can absorb shock. Bend them stupendously out of shape and they’ll forgive you. Grab a hammer and you can tap them back where they need to be.

Copper inhibits bacteria and fungi, promoting a healthy growing environment for plants. There’s also some suggestion copper micro particles are deposited into soil when you use the tools, helping to fend off slugs and snails.

Finally they don’t need routine cleaning or special maintenance. If they come into contact with sap, rinse it off so as not to unevenly mark the tool, and avoid leaving them out in sun and rain to discourage tarnishing. You can buff them back with a scourer if you want to restore the shine. Rinse them well with clean water afterwards and wipe them dry.