- What does a broadfork do that a spade doesn't?
- It loosens and aerates soil by levering the tines back and forth without flipping the soil over. That keeps soil layers and structure intact, which a spade does not.
- Is the 56-inch handle long enough to use standing up?
- Yes. At 56 inches the handle is long enough for most adults to work upright, which is the main reason to choose a broadfork over a hand fork.
- How many tines does it have?
- Five. Fewer, wider-spaced tines push through heavy soil more easily; more tines cover more ground per push but need more force.
- Can it break up hard, compacted ground?
- It is built for that job. Work in stages, pushing the tines in a few inches at a time and levering back, rather than forcing the full depth in one go.
- How do I care for the tines?
- Clean soil off after use, dry the metal, and wipe on a light oil to slow rust. Store it where the sharp tines won't catch on anything.
- Is it good for raised beds?
- Yes, if the beds are wide enough for the long handle to swing. In narrow beds the 56-inch handle can feel cramped.
- Where is the thinkstar 56'' Heavy Duty Broadfork with 5 Sharp Tines cheapest?
- At eBay, for $72.66, as of our latest check.
- Where can I buy the thinkstar 56'' Heavy Duty Broadfork with 5 Sharp Tines?
- 2 stores we checked sell it, including eBay, Sears.