OK, give this a chance before you dog me out about this. I write about a lot of expensive tactical and outdoor kit, but I am always on the lookout for simple, inexpensive tools that will do the job.

Whether you’re planting a tree, spreading mulch, or creating a new landscaping bed, a trusty shovel gets the job done. When shopping for one of these vital gardening tools, there’s a lot to consider.

After gardening for decades, I have learned that what separates efficient work from drudgery is having the right tools for the job. The problem with many tools today is that they weren’t designed with ...