A dibble, also called a dibber or a dibbler, is a gardening tool that makes planting seeds, seedlings and bulbs a joy. Professionals know the importance of planting to consistent depths. Our dibble makes it easy because the shaft is marked in inches. Dibbles are also excellent for aerating soil and creating watering holes around a plant so the water goes straight to the roots. Buy two and you can run a string between them to plant in perfectly straight rows, spirals, etc!It makes holes in the soil to a consistent size and depth.
If you've never used a dibble, or would like to know more about them, click here to download a PDF file explaining their history and use.
I turn these dibbles from Maine hardwoods, generally ash or maple, depending on what's available. They are strong and really hold up to years of abuse. Each dibble measures about 1-1/8" in diameter and 10" long. The spike part is 6" long and is marked every inch so you will know exactly how deep you're planting. The entire length is sanded smooth and finished with mineral oil.
Planting and transplanting is easy with a dibble. To plant seeds, simply poke it straight down into the soil to the desired depth and drop in your seed. If you're planting a row of seeds, drag the dibble to create a trench. To plant bulbs or seedlings, poke a hole to the right depth and wiggle it back and forth to enlarge the hole. You can backfill the holes by poking the dibble around the hole so it caves in. By using the dibble you're not compacting the soil around the roots and you're keeping your hands clean(er). Once your plants are established, stab the surrounding soil to aerate it and make it easier for water to reach the roots.
A dibble is a clever gift for any gardener with arthritis, tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. You can use this dibble for hours on end and not have a sore wrist at the end of the day. In fact we've sold a lot of these to commercial greenhouses. They understand how versatile and practical these dibbles are.
Each dibble has a leather loop in the handle but before hanging it up, we suggest wiping it clean with a damp rag. Every so often you might also give it a coat of mineral oil.
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Dibble!
This dibble is wonderful--lovely to look at AND it works great for a variety of gardening needs! I plan to buy more as gifts! Thank you, Rustic Workbench!
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Gardener's Dibble
I ordered two of these for my husband and I to use in our gardens (9 - 15 x 20 Ft. garden sites in a community garden:), and these are now among our favorite tools. We have just in the first week of having them, utilized them to plant many potatoes and spring seeds. I am also always so happy to support people who are creating in ways that support the Earth. Thank you very much!