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Cleaning and getting rid of sweet gum balls can be a lot of challenge, however, with the right tool, it’s a walk in the park. The best way to get the sweet gum ball off your space is by raking. However easy this may sound, you may find it difficult to use just any type of rake for the sweet gum ball.
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The sweet gum tree is an ornamental tree known for its glossy, beautiful foliage and shade. It has a five-point-shaped leaf, just like a maple leaf. While sweet gum trees can beautify your environment, they can also be a source of frustration. Sweet gums drop woody balls into lawns and gardens, known as sweet gum balls, and this seed pod can be messy in the yard.
Why is Picking up Sweet Gum Balls Important?
Picking up sweet gum balls might seem like just another tedious task to add to our outdoor to-do list. However, over my 13 years in lawn care, I’ve identified some critical reasons why it’s more than just a matter of aesthetics.
1. Safety First
Those spiky orbs, lying in wait on your lawn, can be treacherous. They’re not just uncomfortable underfoot but can cause trips and falls, especially if you have kids or elderly members in your household who love spending time outdoors. A clean lawn isn’t just beautiful; it’s safe.
2. Lawn Health
Gum balls can blanket the ground, creating barriers against sunlight and water. Grass, like all plants, needs its fair share of sunlight and hydration to flourish. By consistently removing gumballs, you’re giving your lawn the best chance to receive vital nutrients and grow thick and lush.
3. Aesthetics
There’s no denying it – a lawn free from scattered gumballs looks tidier and more inviting. If you take pride in your outdoor space, as I do in the gardens I’ve managed throughout my career, then regular cleanup is a must. It enhances your yard’s beauty and increases your property’s curb appeal.
In essence, tackling those gumballs isn’t just about beautifying your space. It’s about creating a safer, healthier environment for both your loved ones and your lawn.
The Best Rakes For Sweet Gum Balls
With a million and one type of rake in the market, it may be overwhelming and stressful to identify which type is perfect for getting the sweet gum balls off your lawn. We thought to make this easy for you by compiling 10 perfect rakes to get the sweet gum balls off your space. Find them below!
This nut gatherer is one of the best rakes to use to pick out sweet gum balls from your yard. The first advantage of this equipment is that it allows you to adjust the length according to the height of the use. It has a length range of 18.5 to 41.5 inches, which is the height range of most adults and children.
The nut gatherer is made of aluminum that is not easily broken and will not succumb to rust or corrosion. The basket is made of elastic stainless steel wires, which will not damage the fruits or whatever has been picked.
It is suitable for picking objects from 1½ to 3 inches in size, making it perfect for picking sweet gum balls, fruits, golf or tennis balls, and other small toys. This nut gatherer is easy to install and use; simply place the small roller on the ground and roll hard.
Although this rake is designed for leaves, it works well for getting sweet gum balls from your lawn. Whether you need to pack large leaves off your yard or pick up pine cones and sweet gum balls, this heavy-duty rake is perfect for you. This rake comes with an adjustable height of between 37 and 65 inches, allowing you to do what you need without bending. It is also suitable for children, to tall adults.
We love that it is made with high-quality stainless steel and a metal iron rake head, which protects it from damaging, breaking, or corrosion. It is also made with an ergonomic design that prevents it from slipping off your hands. We also love that it comes with a three-year warranty.
The LIEKUMM Nut Collector is made with high-quality aluminum alloy, and this protects it from breaking, rusting, or getting damaged for a long time. The spherical basket is also made of stainless steel wire, guaranteeing its elasticity and ability to collect and not damage.
It comes with 3 adjustable sizes from 23.6, 37.5, and 51 inches; making it suitable for adults and children. It is suitable for picking objects from 1 to 3.5 inches in size, this makes it just fine for sweet gum balls.
We love that it is easy to install and use, you also do not require additional tools to have it installed. You may want to pay attention to the joining connect, as it may get off if you’re not paying attention.
Garden weasel nut gatherer is perfect for large nuts and objects of sizes between 1.5 to 3 inches. While it may not work for nuts such as small acorns, it is suitable for sweetgum balls, walnuts, small fruits, etc. It also has a capacity of 1.5 gallons. It comes with a comfortable handle and a hanging hook that makes storing easy, it also comes tall, which makes it easy to work without bending.
We love that this equipment is made with carbon steel and is rust and water-resistant. It also has a comfortable grip handle and will not slip off while you use it. Products from Garden Weasel come with a lifetime limited warranty.
Zozen nut gatherer prides itself in being different from others and it isn’t hard to spot why. The rake is made with a telescopic rod with 3 fixed buttons to help you adjust the height and keep it tight. It also allows you to dump all you have picked better and comes with a storage bag to store all you have collected.
The rod is also made of high-quality aluminum alloy, which ensures the rod’s durability, and ability to resist rust for a long time. The basket is also made of 304 stainless steel wire, which is elastic but never damages fruits or whatever is picked.
The spherical basket comes in a 1.5-gallon capacity and can pick objects of 1 to 2 ½ inches, which is suitable for sweetgum balls and other nuts, however, it will not work for acorns.
We love that this nut collector tool is easy to use and will pick your nuts easily. It comes with a storage bag that you can use to store all that has been picked. It comes with an adjustable telescopic length that can be adjusted from 18.5 to 41.5 inches, this saves you from kneeling while cleaning your yard.
The rod is made of high-quality stainless steel, that is not easily bent or broken. The spherical basket is also made of stainless steel wire which has good elasticity and will not damage the fruits. The basket can pick objects of ¾ to 1 ½ inches in size, which also works well for sweetgum balls. The nut collector tool is easy to install and requires no additional tools.
Although this landscape rake is designed for pine straw, it works well for sweetgum balls, thanks to its steel tines. It comes with 24 5/16-inch spring tines that ensure its durability, reliability, and performance.
It is made of durable steel with powder coat paint, which makes it resistant to corrosion or rust, giving you a long-lasting rake. Furthermore, it also comes handle to make your job easy.
Garden Guru Stainless steel hand rake is one of the best rakes to get for muti-functions. Its versatility allows you to do a lot of things on your lawn, such as pine straws, sticks, acorns, leaves, and even sweetgum balls.
This equipment is easy to use and requires no external tools to get it up. We love that it is durable and lightweight, and it has a no-break co-polymer of a 21-inch head, 28 steel tines, and a 55-inch fiberglass handle and replaceable torsion spring steel tines, all of which are designed to ensure you enjoy using this product, while it gets the job done.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rake for Gum Balls
Selecting the right rake for sweet gum balls can make a significant difference in the efficiency and ease of your cleanup. Not all rakes are created equal, and certain features can greatly enhance their effectiveness when tackling those spiky nuisances. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Size and Spacing of Tines
The gaps between the tines of your rake matter. If they’re too wide, gumballs will slip through. If they’re too close together, you might end up collecting more grass and leaves than gumballs. Aim for a rake with tine spacing optimal for the average size of gum balls.
2. Durability
Gum balls are hardy, and to effectively gather them, you’ll need a rake that’s up to the task. Metal tines tend to be more durable than plastic, but ensure that the metal is rust-resistant to guarantee longevity.
3. Ergonomics
Your comfort matters, especially if you have a sizable lawn to tend to. Look for a rake with a comfortable grip and an adjustable handle length. This ensures that you can maintain a comfortable posture while working, reducing strain on your back and arms.
4. Versatility
While your primary goal might be gumball collection, it’s beneficial if your rake can handle other tasks too. Some rakes come with adjustable heads or telescoping handles, making them suitable for different chores around the yard.
When you consider these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision, ensuring your chosen rake is the perfect fit for your gumball woes.
Other Tools and Techniques for Gum Ball Cleanup
While rakes are a popular choice for many when dealing with gumball cleanup, it’s worth noting that they’re not the only tools at your disposal. Over the years, various innovative tools and techniques have emerged, each with its own merits. Let’s explore some of the other options you might consider:
1. Lawn Sweeper
This is a push-along device, somewhat resembling a lawnmower, designed to pick up debris from your lawn, including gumballs. As you push, brushes rotate, sweeping the gumballs into a collection hopper. It’s a great option for larger lawns, ensuring quick and efficient cleanup.
2. Nut Gatherer or Roller
These are essentially rolling baskets that pick up and trap gum balls as you roll them over your yard. They can be a lifesaver for those who find bending or raking to be physically taxing. Once it’s full, you simply empty the container and continue the process.
3. Protective Gloves and Manual Pickup
For smaller areas or more precise cleanup, donning a pair of protective gloves and picking up gum balls by hand can be effective. This method ensures you don’t disturb the underlying grass or pick up other unwanted debris.
4. Leaf Blower/Vacuum
If you already own a leaf blower or vacuum, it can be used to corral gum balls into piles, making it easier to pick them up. Some high-powered vacuums might even be capable of sucking up the gum balls directly, though be cautious as the spiky nature of gum balls can potentially damage the internal components of some vacuums.
Remember, the best tool or technique often depends on the specific conditions of your lawn, the number of trees you have, and your personal preferences. By exploring different methods, you can find the most efficient and least strenuous way to keep your yard gumball-free.
Maintenance and Care for Your Rake
Your rake, much like any other tool in your garden shed, requires proper care to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Whether you’ve invested in a high-end rake or a simpler model, regular maintenance can keep it functioning at its best for years. Here are some practical tips to maintain and care for your rake:
1. Cleaning After Use
After each gum ball cleanup session, ensure you remove any sap, dirt, or debris from the tines. This prevents any build-up that can reduce the rake’s effectiveness. A simple hose-down usually does the trick, but for stubborn residue, a soft brush and soapy water can be more effective.
2. Storage
Always store your rake in a dry place, preferably hanging up or off the ground. This not only keeps the tines straight but also prevents potential rusting if you have a metal rake. Avoid leaving your rake out in the elements, as prolonged exposure can degrade both metal and wooden components.
3. Check for Wear and Tear
Periodically, especially after intensive use, inspect your rake for signs of wear or damage. Look out for loose connections, bent tines, or any signs of rust. Addressing these early can prolong the life of your rake.
4. Tighten Connections
If your rake has screws or other connectors, ensure they remain tight. Over time, with regular use, these can loosen. A quick check and tightening with the appropriate tool can prevent accidents or breakage during use.
5. Protect Wooden Handles
If your rake has a wooden handle, consider treating it with a wood protector or oil once a year. This helps prevent the wood from drying out, splitting, or rotting, and it also provides a smoother grip for your hands.
Proper care and maintenance not only extend the life of your rake but also ensure that it remains effective in its primary task: helping you keep your yard free of pesky gumballs.
Final Thoughts
Sweetgum balls can be challenging to remove from your yard, especially if it is in season. However, the above-reviewed rakes will ensure you have fewer sweetgum balls to worry about. Before deciding which rake to purchase, ensure it fits your budget and suits what you need it for.
While other types of rakes will work well for sweetgum balls, you must purchase rakes that are specifically designed to remove these balls.
