The popular Grampa’s Weeder is a claw-style tool with a lever that allows you to effortlessly snatch weeds out of the ground without straining your back. This stand up weed puller still features the old-school 1913 design with a sleek new look, thanks to real bamboo construction and a four-claw steel head.
To use it, simply jab the forked end of the pole into the middle of the weed and tip it to one side. This engages the clawed “grabber.” Once weeds are in its clutches, lift the pole up and out of the ground and watch crabgrass, dandelions, and other weeds come up—roots and all!
“Stand up claw devices work best on established weeds, in all soil types, and especially after a good rain or watering,” says Dubow.
When your weeds go deep, the Power Planter Extended Length Auger Drill Bit has the length and spiral shape to do the job.
“An easy way to get the whole root out of the soil without breaking the weed’s root (or your back) is to use an extended-length auger,” Dubow says.
The 48-inch shaft is made of sturdy 5/8-inch steel. Attach the auger to any standard power drill (not included) to retrieve hard-to-reach woody tree and shrub roots that a regular stand up weed puller can’t. It effectively loosens the toughest soil around subterranean tubers and dead shoots, making them much easier to pull out.
With a distinctive shape and looped blade, the Craftsman Wood-Handled Action Hoe slices its way through weeds. It lets you get in close to plants without damaging stems that are disrupting the soil.
This product features a strong steel blade that can be twisted, pushed and pulled to easily uproot weeds. The lightweight hardwood handle is UV-coated and extends 54 inches for excellent reach. It’s also a great cultivating tool for edging along flower beds.
What to Look for in a Stand Up Weed Puller
- Weed-specific operation: Choose a tool specifically for the type of weeds you need to remove.
- Ergonomic design: Tools made to fit your natural body positions decrease the chance of injury. “Look for a lightweight, ergonomic wood handle at least 50 inches long to reduce back strain,” Dubow says.
- Weight: Plastic is less durable but lighter and easier to wield.
- Sturdiness: Weeding tools made of powder-coated steel with screws to hold parts together will last longer than other materials.
- Helpful features: Things like telescoping handles, foot pedals and easy-release buttons make weeding less tedious.
Why You Should Trust Us
Toni DeBella has covered many topics for Family Handyman and is an expert when it comes to reviewing products. She knows how to gather new items that the FHM audience will love, taking into account price, durability and customer reviews.
Mary Henn, shopping editor at Family Handyman updated this article with fresh product picks and additional insights on stand up weed pullers. She consulted Katie Dubow, president of Garden Media Group and host for Cottage Farms on QVC to get a better understanding of what to look for in a stand up weed puller.
FAQs
Is it better to pull weeds or spray weeds?
There are pros and cons to each method of weed removal. Spraying weeds is more efficient, especially for large yards, and will allow you to kill all your weeds faster. But, it can be damaging to the environment and other plants in your yard. Pulling weeds is a more manual process, but it’s better for the environment and regrowth is less likely because you remove the entirety of the weed including the roots.
When is the best time to pull weeds?
The best time to pull weeds is when the ground is moist and shortly after they appear. Softer ground will allow you to remove the entire weed easier and pulling them when they’re young will help you avoid extensive root systems.
