For weeding small garden areas, DeVito suggests this handheld hoe from Barebones. It has an ergonomic, stainless steel blade and walnut handle for a smooth and easy grip, according to the brand.

The most effective weeding method 'depends on the weed and ... dry day is ideal – just don't hoe too deeply, or you might actually cause more weeds to grow!' Perennial weeds, meanwhile, can ...

Putting it to the test Hand weeding half of a 10-by-20-feet garden took Wirecutter staffer Sebastian Compagnucci around 15 minutes, whereas using a stirrup hoe on the other half took seven minutes.