When many people hear rake, they think of the big plastic or bamboo thing used to make leaf piles. And yes, that’s a perfectly legitimate type of rake, but it’s far from the only one and not really the best tool for gardening. Read on to learn more about the different types of rakes and tips for using rakes in gardens.
Different types of rakes for gardening
here are two very basic rakes types:
Lawn Rake / Leaf Rake – This is the rake that most readily comes to mind when you hear the word rake and think of falling leaves. The tines are long and bent out from the handle, with a cross piece of material (usually metal) holding them in place. The edges of the tines are bent over at about 90 degrees. These rakes are designed to pick up leaves and grass clippings without penetrating or damaging the grass or soil below.
Bow Rake / Garden Rake – This rake is heavier. Its tines are wide and short, usually only about 3 inches (7, 5 cm) long. They bend at a 90-degree angle from the head. These rakes are almost always made of metal and are sometimes called iron rakes or horizontal rakes. They are used to move, spread, and level soil.
Additional rakes for gardening
While there are two main types of garden rakes, there are other types of rakes that are a little less common, but they definitely have their uses. What are rakes for other than the tasks mentioned above? Let’s find out.
Shrub rake – This is almost the same as a leaf rake, except that it is much narrower. It is easier to handle and fits better in small places, like under shrubs (hence the name), to collect leaves and other debris.
Hand Rake – This is a small hand rake that is about the size of a trowel. These rakes are usually made of metal for heavy work – and they are a bit like miniature rakes. With just a few long, pointed tines, these rakes are perfect for digging and moving soil in small spaces.
Thatch Rake – This common rake is a bit like a bow rake with blades on both ends. It is used to break up and remove thick sod in lawns.