Augers are designed to cut into the ground and make holes. The majority of augers can be attached to a standard drill, either mains-powered or cordless. However, the larger augers need an independent power supply as they are too big to fit a drill.
These augers have a dedicated powerhead which will be supplied when you rent the auger. If you are planning on buying an auger you may need to buy the powerhead as well.
Of course, you also need to choose the right type of auger. Unsurprisingly, rock augers are essential if you are digging into rock or going deeper into the ground, such as when you want to create a borehole.
It should be noted that lower-powered drills are generally better for your auger as you want it to slowly and steadily cut into the soil, not send it all flying.
In general, the augers for planting are at the smaller end of the scale. However, the first consideration when choosing your size of auger is what are you planting? Clearly, a mature tree will need a much bigger hole than a sapling or young plant.
Sizes Available
You need to choose a size of auger that makes a hole slightly bigger than you require for your plant. It isn't just the width of the auger you need to consider, you also need to think about how deep you need the hole to be. Augers come in all shapes and sizes.
For example, augers with two-inch width can be anything from seven inches to fifty-four inches long. Three-inch wide augers range from seven to forty-eight inches long, while larger ones are generally more fixed in length, such as four to nine inches wide which are all generally twenty-eight inches long.
Knowing the sizes available will make it easier to choose the right one for your needs. Don't forget, it is easier to make a hole bigger than it is to shrink its diameter.
However, when planting, if you are unsure of the best width you can go one size bigger and simply fill in the extra because you are unlikely to be talking about a huge amount of soil.
Adding The Power Supply
As mentioned, an auger is powered by your home drill and lower power options are often the best choice. However, you do need to consider whether to use a corded or cordless drill. Corded options tend to be more powerful and you don't have to worry about running out of power.
But, cordless drills are considerably more portable, making it easier to lake holes anywhere you want in your garden.
Bonus Tip
If you are still not sure what size auger is best suited to your needs then talk to the specialists before you rent or buy your auger. If you tell them what you are intending on doing, they will talk you through the process and ensure you choose the right auger for the job.
