Hori Hori

Tools like the hori hori validate Japan's reputation for efficient design. The Japanese hori hori looks like a stubby, dual-edged knife. Sharpened serrations line both edges of the hori hori, and one side of the tool's blade caves inward to create a small, spade-like scoop. Weeding is the hori hori's most common application; the concave design of the hori hori's blade plunges into the soil to pry roots from the ground, and the tool's sharp edges cut roots and sever weed stalks. Typically about the size of a paring knife, the hori hori maneuvers between plants and into tight spaces.

Scythe and Sickle

The true application of the grim reaper's equipment is cutting weeds, harvesting crops and mowing grass. The scythe and its miniature counterpart consist of two basic parts: a curved, half-crescent blade and a long, pole-like handle. In the case of the scythe, the handle often stretches over 4 feet long, and, in the case of the sickle, the handle generally remains below 18 inches long. The blades of both tools are sharpened on one side, attach to the end of the handles and protrude perpendicularly with the sharpened edge facing the opposite end of the handle. The operation of both tools is basically the same: the farmer or landscaper grips the handle and swings the sharpened edge of the blade through the stalks of weeds, grass or crops.

String Trimmer

The string trimmer's rapidly spinning string whips and cuts the stalks of weeds. A gas or electric motor supplies power to the tool's rotating head, which houses a roll of thick, plastic string. The string trimmer's head connects to a long metal shaft that leads to a pistol-style grip and operating controls. The length and angle of the string trimmer's shaft allows the tool's operator to position the spinning string nearly flush with the ground. The string trimmer's speed and ease of use earns it great popularity among amateur and professional gardeners.