The 4 Best Mulch Pitchforks

You ever get that feeling when you’re gardening, like you’re in this beautiful waltz with nature? It’s like every beat of your heart is in tune with the rhythm of the earth. Each flower bed you lay out, every compost heap you pile, it’s all part of this grand performance. And of course, every dancer needs a partner, and in the world of gardening, the mulch pitchfork is one heck of a dance partner. Now, as someone who’s been waist-deep in mulch for years up in Kentucky, I reckon I’ve got a thing or two to share.

When it comes to moving mulch around your garden, nothing beats the ol’ mulch pitchfork. When you’ve got the right one, it feels less like work, more like fun. There are a few things you should keep an eye on though. The tines, the handle, and the weight – these are the main players in the game. The tines, especially, could be made of anything from tough steel to lightweight plastic, and they’ll determine how much mulch you can scoop up at a time.

The handle’s material, on the other hand, affects how comfortable and balanced the pitchfork feels in your hand. Get the right combination, and turning mulch from a tedious chore into a pleasant pastime is a piece of cake.

What’s the right pitchfork for you? Well, that depends on what you’re working with. For smaller gardens or cramped spaces, a pitchfork with fewer tines and a shorter handle might be your best bet. But if you’ve got a big garden or a lot of mulch to deal with, you’re gonna need something a bit sturdier, like a steel-tined pitchfork with a long handle.

Comfort and functionality are paramount – don’t you forget it. Folks with weaker grips or arthritis might be better off with a D-shaped handle. And for those with stronger hands, or more work to get through, a traditional long, straight handle could be more your speed.

And remember – always test the pitchfork before you buy it. After all, you’re gonna be spending a good chunk of time with it, so you better make sure it feels right in your hands and can handle whatever your garden throws at it.

Related: Composting Horse Manure: The Proven Benefits for Your Garden

There’s a whole world of pitchforks out there, and I’ve tried more than my fair share. Here’s a rundown of a few favorites I’ve found over the years:

In the end, the best mulch pitchfork for you depends on your garden, the mulch you use, your physical abilities, and your budget. But once you find the right tool, you’ll see that mulching isn’t just work – it’s a part of the joy of gardening.