Are you struggling to choose the best wheel hoe for your market garden? With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive wheel hoe review, we break down the pros and cons of each model to help you make an informed decision. We’ll compare some of the best wheel hoes available, including the Hoss Wheel Hoe, Valley Oak Wheel Hoe, Glaser Wheel Hoe, Terrateck Single Wheel Hoe, and the newly released Growers&Co Wheel Hoe.
DISCLAIMER: I’m part owner of the Growers&Co company and the main designer of its tool line, so my take on it is somewhat biased. That said, I’ve approached these wheel hoe reviews with full honesty and transparency.
A Top Contender for the Best Wheel Hoe on the Market: The Hoss Wheel Hoe Review
Manufactured In : USA | Price : Mid-range cost (attachments and upgrades increasing the total price)
Ergonomic Features
The Hoss Wheel Hoe is known for its adjustable handles, which can fit various user heights and reduce strain during use. However, I’m not a fan of the round handles designed primarily for steering animals in a traditional horse-drawn motion. Handlebars of wheel hoes should be designed to push down on the wheel using the grip and the handlebars, as seen in other models.
Attachment Options
The Hoss comes with 3 Cultivator Teeth attachments, which are less ideal for market gardeners than an oscillating blade. However, it boasts the most versatile range of attachments, including plows, sweeps, disc harrows, and even a Drip Tape Layer Attachment, making it adaptable for different tasks. Despite this versatility, converting from a single to a double wheel hoe isn’t worth the hassle for busy days.
Durability
The Hoss Wheel Hoe features a metal steel wheel, which is durable but somewhat clunky to handle. I prefer rubber-tired wheels. The wood handlebars, Amish-crafted, ensure quality and longevity.
Customer Service and Ethics
The Hoss family and ownership are known for their integrity. They provide prompt, friendly customer service, making them a pleasure to buy from. For more information, check out the Hoss website.
A Trusted Choice for Those Seeking the Best Wheel Hoe: Valley Oak Wheel Hoe Review
Manufactured In : USA | Price : Slightly above mid-range for the base model
Ergonomic Features
The Valley Oak Wheel Hoe was my first wheel hoe as a young gardener, a testament to its longevity. Despite breaking the metal shaft after extensive use, the ergonomic design allows growers to use their hips’ power to push and pull the tool effectively. Adjustable handlebars cater to various user heights, enhancing comfort.
Attachment Options
Valley Oak offers a variety of attachments, including oscillating hoe blades and a 4-tine cultivator, superior to the Hoss model. The quick-connect system for attachments was a significant influence on the design of the Growers&Co wheel hoe.
Durability
The Valley Oak Wheel Hoe is entirely metal and built to last. Despite my earlier experience, the company offers a 100% replacement guarantee, underscoring their commitment to durability.
Customer Service and Ethics
Valley Oak Tool Company has a strong reputation for excellent customer service. Their honest business practices make thaem a company worth supporting.
For more information, visit the Valley Oak Tool Company website.
An Ergonomic Tool Aiming to Be the Best Wheel Hoe: Glaser Wheel Hoe Review
Manufactured In : Switzerland, with ash handlebars made in the USA | Price : Premium-tier pricing
Ergonomic Features
The Glaser Wheel Hoe was once the gold standard for me, praised for its superior ergonomics and lightweight design. It’s comfortable to use, with a pneumatic tire and fully adjustable handles for height and attachment angle.
Attachment Options
The Glaser offers various attachments like oscillating hoes and a plow-hiller, but swapping them requires manual effort, which is a downside. Its ability to convert to a double wheel hoe is better suited as a separate tool altogether.
Durability
The lightweight design comes at a cost: durability. However, the tool’s comfort and ease of use make up for this, although extensive usage can wear it down.
Customer Service and Ethics
Purchasing from Johnny’s Selected Seeds ensures excellent service, though information on the Glaser company itself is limited. For more information, visit the Glaser Wheel Hoe page on Johnny’s Seeds.
Designed to Stand Out Among the Best Wheel Hoes Available: Terrateck Single Wheel Hoe Review
Manufactured In : France | Price : Among the most expensive, especially with import costs and add-ons.
Ergonomic Features
The Terrateck Single Wheel Hoe stands out with its innovative, French-made design. Its lightweight frame, combined with a pneumatic wheel, ensures both comfort and efficiency. The handles are adjustable, though not as quickly as some other models.
Attachment Options
Terrateck offers a wide range of attachments, including unique options like a colinear hoe and a spring tine weeder. However, the starter pack does not include an oscillating hoe, a key tool in market gardening.
Durability
The all-metal construction ensures this tool is built to last, designed to withstand intensive gardening demands.
Customer Service and Ethics
Terrateck is recognized in Europe for its commitment to innovation. Distributed by Johnny’s Selected Seeds in the US, their tools come with reliable customer service.
For more information, visit Johnny’s Selected Seeds website.
Competing for the Best Wheel Hoe Spot: Growers&Co Wheel Hoe Review
Manufactured In : Canada | Price : Competitive pricing, especially considering build quality and ergonomics.
Ergonomic Features
As the main designer, I’m biased, but I believe the Growers&Co Wheel Hoe stands out with its shorter design, maximizing the push-down motion on the wheel base. The construction is all metal, with a pneumatic tire, and the handles are quickly adjustable for different users.
Attachment Options
Currently, the Growers&Co Wheel Hoe comes with an 18-inch oscillating blade and a furrow attachment. While it’s less versatile than other brands, the quick-switch system allows for easy transitions between tasks.
Durability
The all-metal construction ensures durability, making it a tool that can last a lifetime.
Customer Service and Ethics
As a new company, Growers&Co still has much to prove. However, we are deeply committed to the movement and the well-being of the people using our products.
Find more information on the Growers&Co Wheel Hoe and visit their website
Comparison Chart: Wheel Hoe Reviews for Market Gardening
| Feature | Hoss Wheel Hoe | Valley Oak Wheel Hoe | Glaser Wheel Hoe | Terrateck Single Wheel Hoe | Growers&Co Wheel Hoe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ergonomics | Adjustable handles, round handles less ideal for market gardening. | Adjustable handles, all-metal, steel wheel is clunky. | Superior ergonomics, lightweight, adjustable. | Unique design, adjustable handles, lightweight. | Shorter design, pneumatic tire, quickly adjustable handles. |
| Strengths | Versatile with a wide range of attachments. | High-quality attachments, robust construction, quick-connect system. | Superior comfort and lightweight construction. | Versatile with unique attachments, robust steel frame. | Well-balanced design, durable, competitive pricing. |
| Weaknesses | Clunky metal wheel, less ergonomic for market gardening. | Clunky steel wheel, some attachments are pricey. | Manual effort to swap attachments, less durable. | Most expensive due to import fees, some attachments less effective. | Limited to two attachments currently, new company with much to prove. |
| Manufactured In | USA | USA | Switzerland (handles in USA) | France | Canada |
| Price (including shipping to VT)* | $300 USD | $349 USD | $479 USD | $719 USD | $395 USD |
| Customer Service & Ethics | Excellent, prompt service, family-owned. | Excellent, strong reputation, honest business. | Excellent via Johnny's Seeds, limited info on company. | Known for innovation in Europe, excellent service via Johnny's Seeds. | New company, strong commitment, much to prove. |
*Prices as seen when the article was written. Subject to change
Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses
Hoss Wheel Hoe:
- Strengths: Highly versatile with a wide range of attachments, durable construction, and excellent customer service.
- Weaknesses: Ergonomically less ideal for market gardening, clunky metal wheel.
Valley Oak Wheel Hoe:
- Strengths: High-quality attachments, robust all-metal construction, quick-connect system, and excellent customer service.
- Weaknesses: Clunky steel wheel, some attachments are quite pricey.
Glaser Wheel Hoe:
- Strengths: Superior ergonomics and lightweight construction, comfortable to use, and excellent customer service via Johnny’s Seeds.
- Weaknesses: Limited attachment options, manual effort required to swap attachments, less durable due to lightweight design, high price point.
Terrateck Single Wheel Hoe:
- Strengths: Unique and innovative design, versatile with a range of unique attachments, robust steel frame, built to last.
- Weaknesses: Most expensive option due to additional import fees, some attachments like the colinear hoe are less effective compared to oscillating hoes.
Growers&Co Wheel Hoe:
- Strengths: Well-balanced ergonomic design, durable all-metal construction, quickly adjustable handles, competitive pricing.
- Weaknesses: Currently limited to two attachments, new company with much to prove compared to established brands.
Is the Wheel Hoe a Smart Investment?
Choosing the right wheel hoe for your market garden can significantly impact your efficiency and comfort. Whether you prioritize versatility, durability, or ergonomics, each of these tools offers unique strengths.
Curious what else should make the cut for your farm setup?
Browse our top picks in our guide: 30+ Must-Have Small Farm Equipment and Tools
If you’re interested in learning more about the tools and techniques I use in my market garden, I invite you to explore the resources available at The Market Gardener Institute. And for top-quality hoes and other essential gardening tools, visit the Growers&Co. online shop. As always, the right tools make the work easier, more productive, and ultimately more rewarding.
