Folks from the U.S. eastern coast probably already know how to use a Cape Cod weeder, but the rest of us are wondering what the heck it is. Here’s a hint: A Cape Cod weeder is a tool, but of what sort? Read on to find out about using a Cape Cod weeder in the garden.
What is a Cape Cod Weeder?
I’m a gardener and come from a long line of gardeners, but I have to say I’ve never heard of a Cape Cod weeder tool. Of course, right away, the name gave me a clue. The story about the Cape Cod weeder is that many years ago a woman living on Cape Cod designed this weeding tool. It is a knife-like tool that is used to slice weeds and loosen difficult soils. It slices weeds just below the soil line and is especially handy when working in tight places. Basically, it’s a curved, forged steel blade that has been secured to a wooden handle. Cape Cod weeders weren’t known outside of the Cape Cod area until the 1980s when Snow & Neally of Bangor, Maine began to market them throughout the country. Today’s versions come in both right and left handed types.
How to Use a Cape Cod Weeder
There’s no trick to using a Cape Cod weeder. The only issue is if you’re a leftie or if you use your right hand. Of course, if you’re ambidextrous (lucky you), you can use either type of weeder. Once you have the weeder comfortably grasped in the favored hand, you’re ready to use the weeder. The Cape Cod weeder makes light work of aerating to loosen and cut through crusted soils and root out tough weeds beneath the soil’s surface.