What is the Difference Between a Single and a Double Wheel Hoe?

Author: Greg Baka

A single wheel hoe has one wheel at the front, whereas the double has two wheels at the front of the machine. Each type can be used with a variety of attachments for the weeding and cultivating work that needs to be done in the garden. Both types of machine can be used for most of the same tasks. Some brands can be converted from single to double, and back, to maximize their capabilities. But do be aware that there are very important advantages and disadvantages to each type of wheel hoe.

Also see our Wheel Hoe FAQ page for answers to a wider variety of questions.

Below are the advantages and disadvantages of BOTH single and double wheel hoes.

Advantages of a Single Wheel Hoe

• Easy to maneuver in tight spaces - A single wheel hoe is an ideal choice for tight spaces. Its single wheel makes it easier to get close to crops, while its narrow design ensures that it can be easily pushed through slim paths.
• More precise steering - The single wheel hoe provides more precise steering and is easier to control. The same is true with a wheel hoe as a wheelbarrow. According to the article, Why Do Wheelbarrows Only Have One Wheel? "The major advantage of the single wheelbarrow is that it’s much easier to steer and maneuver between tight spaces and turns."
• Easy to keep it level – It is important that a wheel hoe's attachments stay level and parallel to the soil surface. Consider what happens when you hit a clod or rock with only one wheel on a double wheel hoe, your arms are going to take the brunt of that twisting force as you fight to keep the tool level. But with a single wheel hoe, the front wheel just rolls up and over clumps and clods without the sudden twist that forces the attachment to not be level
• Less expensive than double wheel hoes - Single wheel hoes are less expensive than double wheel hoes, making them an attractive option for gardeners on a budget. Single wheel hoes can provide the same amount of weeding and cultivating assistance at a much lower cost.
• Easier to set up for hilling and weeding - Without adjusting the attachment, a single wheel hoe can be used to weed or hill rows of multiple crops by simply pushing it along each side of the different rows. If you are using a double wheel hoe for straddle weeding (weeding both sides of the row in one pass) the position of the left and right attachments will have to be adjusted for each different type and size of plant.
• Easy to transport - Single wheel hoes are up to 5 lbs lighter than a double wheel hoe. The lower weight makes it easier to push as well as easier to pick up and transport in the back of your car or truck.

Disadvantages of a Single Wheel Hoe

• Does not easily stand up - A single wheel hoe will sometimes not stand up on its own. So if you need to stop and step away, you will have to lay it down. If you are working in narrow pathways it is hard to lay it down without setting it down on one of your crop rows.
• Can not straddle weed – A single wheel hoe cannot straddle a row of crops to weed or hill a row in a single pass. Straddle weeding can save some weeding time if you have many rows of the same crop.

Advantages of a Double Wheel Hoe

• Able to straddle weed some crops - With a double wheel hoe you can set up the weeding attachments to "straddle" your rows so that you can weed both sides of the row in a single pass. This will save you time if you have long, multiple rows of crops like corn, carrots or radishes.
• Can hill both sides of a row simultaneously - Since double wheel hoes come with a wide gap between the wheels and some clearance above the ground, you can set up a double wheel hoe to straddle hill crops for weed control, water conservation, and crop stability in a single pass. See our Hilling article
• Easily stands on its own - With the extra balance created by the two front wheels on this machine it will easily stay in an upright position if you need to walk away.

Disadvantages of Double Wheel Hoes

• Higher cost compared to Single Wheel Hoes - The double wheel hoe is more expensive than a single.
• Not as maneuverable - The two wheels make this tool more difficult to steer than the single wheeled version. It also will not fit into tight rows as well as a single wheel model.
• Harder to keep it level – It is important that a wheel hoe's attachments stay level and parallel to the soil surface. When you hit a clod with just one of the wheels of a double wheel hoe, the machine is going to tilt and rock, making the attachment not be level for a moment. This could make you to miss spots and struggle while hilling or weeding.
• Takes more time to set up attachments - When straddle weeding or hilling, a pair of attachments both need to be adjusted to the correct distance apart for each different crop or size of plants.

How to Choose Between Single or Double Wheel Hoe

When deciding between a single wheel hoe and double wheel hoe, it's important to consider the type of crops you are going to be working with and the size of your garden or farm.

If you have lots of the same crop in long rows, then the effort to set up for straddle weeding will save you time in the long run with a double wheel hoe. If you have lots of different crops or narrow paths, then the single wheel hoe will be more economical.

Weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each and make your decision based on that before making a purchase. Whether you choose a single or double wheel hoe, rest assured that either will be a great addition to your garden tool arsenal.

Tips for Using Your New Wheel Hoe Effectively

Whether you get a single or double wheel hoe, the key to using your new tool effectively is to select the right attachment for the conditions and job. In addition, adjust the handles to be the proper height for maximum comfort. Also, work with the soil conditions; working when soil is not too wet, and before it becomes hard-baked, will make the job easier.

By following these simple steps and taking the time to understand the differences between single and double wheel hoes, you can be sure that your new tool will provide you with years of gardening enjoyment. Enjoy!