Garden & Spade Shovels

There are a range of garden shovels and spades to choose from, that come in different materials and with different handles and blades. For example, d-handle shovels are traditionally best for maximum leverage, whereas t-handles are good for smaller hands and to apply more force. As opposed to the standard spade, pointed spades are more useful for getting through tougher material and border spades are suitable for tedious tasks like working with a narrow flower border. Canadian Tire has a great selection of spades and shovels in many styles and materials so you can pick the best one for the job.

Are garden shovels the same as garden spades?

Although they might appear similar in nature, shovels and spades serve different purposes in the garden. Spades have shorter handles and flat blades, while shovels have longer, angled handles with a curved scoop. Depending on the task, you should select the right tool, whether you’re digging or doing precision tasks like stripping sod or transplanting large plants.

When to use a garden shovel and when to use a garden spade?

As hinted at by its blade, shovels are made for digging up, lifting soil, and scooping and moving around material. On the other hand, spades have a sharp, straight blade that makes it easy to cut, edge, or dig. Some people make a distinction between edging shovels and digging shovels, where edging shovels are spades.

To find other tools like picks, rakes, and weeders, browse our selection of lawn and garden tools.