Hand weeders are tested

Make blitzing weeds easier with the right implement

BEST PERENNIAL WEEDER Darlac 5 in 1 Trowel, £9.99

The 19cm (7½in) long, trowel-like blade is excellent at digging out weeds. Its forked end lifts perennial weed taproots, the sharpened honed edge is useful for dislodging fibrous roots and the saw-tooth edge cuts through thicker roots. Supplier: Darlac, 01753 547790, www.darlac.com

BEST ACCURATE WEEDER De Wit Cape Cod Weeder, £17.99

Excellent for hoeing or scything through weeds and their roots at or just below the soil surface with a high degree of accuracy. Its sharp blade cut through weed stems with ease and can be sharpened as needed. You can hook out any weeds lurking behind plants, and the sharp point is good for excavating around roots, especially in tight or small spaces. It has a good-sized, comfortable and solid ash handle. Supplier: De Wit from Crocus, 01344 578111, www.crocus.co.uk

BEST CULTIVATING WEEDER Kent & Stowe Stainless Steel Hand Loop Weeder, £9.99

This was perfect for hoeing weeds at soil level effortlessly, easily cutting deeply into the soil to slice through small or thin perennial weed roots. The blade allows you to cultivate the soil at the same time, while the broad ash wood ‘bat’ handle is comfortable to hold and use, providing control and accuracy in use and allowing force to be used as needed. Supplier: Kent & Stowe from Crest Garden, 02887 721009, crest-garden.com