The best tool for digging holes for trees is a powered earth auger.
You want a clean, deep hole fast. But the ground fights back with roots, rocks, and hard clay. I’ve been there, shovel in hand, sweating and cursing. The right tool turns that struggle into a smooth, safe, and even fun task. In this guide, I’ll show what actually works in real yards, whether you’re planting a bare-root sapling or setting a larger tree. I’ll also explain when an auger, shovel, or dibble bar is the best tool for digging holes for trees so you can get healthy roots, strong growth, and less back pain.
Bully Tools Heavy-Duty Dibble Bar (3/8 in.)
This all-steel dibble bar is built for tough ground. The T-style handle gives strong leverage, so you can punch narrow, deep holes without bending a shaft or snapping a handle. I use a tool like this when I need a pilot hole for a tree stake or to guide a larger auger bit. It slides into dense clay and gravel better than many shovels, and it tamps soil back in place as you go.
If you plant bare-root trees, this tool shines. You can work the hole to depth, test for drainage, and cut small roots with the sharp tip. It also lets you plant many small saplings fast, like windbreaks or hedgerows, with consistent spacing and depth. When power tools are overkill, this is a quiet, no-fuss option that lasts for years.
Pros:
- All-steel build handles rocky and compacted soil
- T-style handle gives strong control and leverage
- Great for pilot holes, stakes, and bare-root saplings
- Easy soil tamping for firm, air-free backfill
- Low maintenance and no fuel, noise, or cords
Cons:
- Not suited for wide holes for larger container trees
- Weight can tire arms during long sessions
- Slower than powered augers on big projects
My Recommendation
Choose this if you plant bare-root saplings, need precise pilot holes, or work in rocky clay. It is not the best tool for digging holes for trees when you need a wide planting pit. But for tight spots, stakes, and test holes, it’s a star. It also pairs well with a powered auger by scouting the ground before you drill.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Bare-root saplings and seedlings | Fast narrow holes with precise depth control |
| Pilot holes in hard clay or gravel | Sharp steel tip penetrates dense ground |
| Stake and anchor installation | Makes tight, deep holes that tamp firm |
XtremepowerUS 1500W Electric Post Hole Digger, 6 in
This 1500W corded auger drills holes fast. The included 6-inch bit is ideal for pilot holes, posts, and small to medium plantings. For larger trees, a 6-inch hole sets the center and depth. Then you can widen with a shovel or use a bigger bit if compatible with its 3/4-inch shaft. The electric motor gives steady torque without fumes, tune-ups, or fuel mixing.
For dense soils, this model can save hours. You will still need to call 811 before digging and watch for roots, lines, and rocks. Good handles and a trigger lock improve control and safety. If you plant often, this can be the best tool for digging holes for trees in suburban yards and small orchards, especially when speed matters.
Pros:
- Powerful 1500W motor for fast drilling
- Electric means no gas, fumes, or carb issues
- 6-inch bit included; useful for pilot holes and posts
- Compatible with common 3/4-inch shaft bits
- Good value for frequent yard and garden projects
Cons:
- Power cord limits range without extension
- 6-inch bit may be narrow for larger tree pits
- Not ideal if your site is far from outlets
My Recommendation
Use this if you plant many trees or posts and want speed, clean holes, and lower effort. It shines in medium to firm soils with access to power. For big root balls, make a pilot hole, then widen with a spade or add a larger bit. It can be the best tool for digging holes for trees when you want repeatable depth and easy soil removal.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Fast pilot holes for trees | 6-inch bit centers and sets depth quickly |
| Fence posts and small plantings | Clean, straight holes with less effort |
| Busy homeowners and landscapers | Electric reliability and low maintenance |
NAFOGAR Garden Auger Drill Bit Set (2-Pack)
This two-pack includes a 1.6 x 16.5-inch and a 3.5 x 16-inch auger bit. They fit most 3/8-inch hex-drive drills, so you can use your favorite cordless driver. I like these for pilot holes around a new tree site and for mixing compost or fertilizer into backfill. The longer length helps reach deeper layers and check if the soil drains well.
These bits are not for huge tree pits on their own. But they are a smart helper for prep, soil sampling, and deep watering. They can also help slice through sod and make the shovel work faster. If you only plant a few trees a year, this set can feel like the best tool for digging holes for trees because you already own the drill.
Pros:
- Two useful sizes for pilot holes and mixing soil
- Works with common 3/8-inch hex-drive drills
- Long shafts reach deeper layers for testing
- Budget-friendly way to speed up digging
- Great for bulbs, bedding plants, and drip spikes
Cons:
- Dependent on your drill’s torque and battery
- Not for rocky ground or large roots
- Can twist wrists if the bit catches
My Recommendation
Get this set if you want a low-cost upgrade for your drill that saves time. It is perfect for small projects, light soil, and prep work around your tree site. For larger holes, pair it with a sharp spade or an electric auger. When used this way, it can be the best tool for digging holes for trees for casual gardeners and first-time planters.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Pilot holes and soil tests | Two sizes fit most cordless drills |
| Mixing compost in backfill | Spiral action blends soil quickly |
| Small saplings and bulbs | Clean, quick holes with little effort |
2-Pack Auger Drill Bits with Gloves (1.6 & 3.5 in)
This two-bit set mirrors the sizes many homeowners love: 1.6 x 16 inches and 3.5 x 16 inches. The included gloves are a small perk when handling sharp soil or gravel. Use these with a 3/8-inch drill to pre-drill holes around the planting area. You can also make holes for slow-release fertilizer and watering spikes to help new trees root faster.
As with other drill-based augers, the drill’s power matters. Use a side-handle drill for better control, and keep speeds moderate so you do not strip soil. I use this kind of set to map out the planting site and avoid big roots before I dig. It can be the best tool for digging holes for trees if you like simple gear and quick prep.
Pros:
- Two length and width options cover most light tasks
- Compatible with standard 3/8-inch hex chucks
- Helpful for deep watering and fertilizer spikes
- Includes gloves for a safer grip
- Great value for small yards and raised beds
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy clay with stones
- Requires a strong drill and steady hands
- Limited to smaller holes and prep tasks
My Recommendation
Pick this set if you want a gentle step up from a hand trowel without buying a big machine. It is best for short, simple jobs and for planning the depth of your tree’s hole. Pair it with a root-cutting shovel to widen and shape. Used together, they can feel like the best tool for digging holes for trees for budget-minded DIYers.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Quick pilot holes and layout | Two sizes, easy to use with a drill |
| Deep watering and root feeding | Drills uniform holes for spikes and tubes |
| Light soil and garden beds | Efficient digging without heavy gear |
ROOT ASSASSIN 48-inch Garden Shovel/Saw
This hybrid shovel has serrated edges that act like a saw. That gives you a clean way to cut through roots as you shape a tree pit. The long handle helps with leverage, and the blade profile slips under sod and into compacted soil. It is a clever tool for urban yards where roots and rubble slow normal shovels down.
When a powered auger hits roots, you still need a cutting tool. I use a root-cutting shovel like this to notch the perimeter of the hole, slice roots clean, and avoid tearing. That protects nearby trees and makes the new hole cleaner for your plant. For many homeowners, this feels like the best tool for digging holes for trees when working close to fences or in tight beds.
Pros:
- Serrated edges cut roots while digging
- Good leverage with a 48-inch handle
- Strong for edging, trenching, and shaping holes
- Reduces strain compared to hacking with a hatchet
- Great control around utilities and tight spaces
Cons:
- Not a replacement for a large auger on big jobs
- Serrated edges need care to stay sharp
- Narrower foot platform than some spades
My Recommendation
Choose this shovel if your site has roots or tight access. It gives you precise cuts and protects surrounding plants. Pair it with a small auger or dibble bar for depth. This combo can be the best tool for digging holes for trees where finesse matters as much as speed.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Cutting roots during digging | Serrated edges slice, do not tear |
| Shaping and edging tree pits | Good control in small spaces |
| Transplanting shrubs and trees | Clean cuts reduce transplant shock |
FAQs Of best tool for digging holes for trees
How wide and deep should a tree hole be?
Make the hole two to three times wider than the root ball. Keep the depth equal to the root ball height so the root flare sits at soil level. Wider is better than deeper for healthy roots.
Is an auger safe for tree roots and utilities?
Call 811 to mark utilities before digging. Use low speed and stop if you hit resistance. Switch to a root-cutting shovel near roots to avoid tearing.
What drill do I need for a planting auger bit?
Use a 18V or higher cordless drill with a side handle. Pick low gear and steady pressure. Wear gloves and eye protection for safety.
Can I plant trees with only a shovel?
Yes, if the soil is soft and the tree is small. In hard clay or rocky ground, an auger or dibble bar can save time and energy.
What is the best tool for digging holes for trees in clay?
A powered earth auger with a sharp bit works best. Pair it with a root-cutting shovel to shape the hole and cut roots cleanly.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want speed and clean holes, the XtremepowerUS electric auger is often the best tool for digging holes for trees. It drills fast and pairs well with a root-cutting shovel.
Planting bare-root saplings or testing tough ground? The Bully Tools dibble bar is simple and strong. For light prep, the drill auger sets are the best tool for digging holes for trees on a budget.
