Lee Valley Ho-Mi Digger

The unique, curved plowshare design acts like a miniature plow, allowing the tool to slice through soil with minimal resistance. This shape is particularly effective for creating furrows for seeds, hilling soil around plants, and levering out stubborn weeds.

Carbon steel is prized for its ability to hold a sharp edge and its overall durability, but it is susceptible to rust if left wet. To keep the blade in top condition, wipe it clean and dry it thoroughly after every use, and consider applying a light coat of oil before storing it for the season.

The short-handled version offers greater control and precision, making it ideal for close-up work while kneeling or sitting. The long-handled version is designed for standing use, which saves your back and knees during extended weeding or digging sessions.

Yes, the hand-forged steel is robust enough to handle tough soil conditions. However, because it is a single-tine tool, it is best used for focused tasks like weeding or planting rather than broad-scale tilling of large, compacted beds.

Absolutely. The pointed, tapered tip allows you to easily pierce the soil to the desired depth, while the wide blade helps you scoop out just enough earth to place your bulb, making it a very efficient tool for planting.