Istutuspuikon

Istutuspuikon is a Finnish term that translates to "planting stick" or "dibber." It is a simple but essential gardening tool used for creating holes in the soil for planting seeds, seedlings, or small bulbs. Typically made of wood or metal, an istutuspuikko has a pointed end and a handle for comfortable grip.

The primary function of an istutuspuikko is to ensure seeds and small plants are placed at the correct depth, which is crucial for their germination and healthy growth. By inserting the pointed end into the soil, gardeners can create uniform holes of a consistent depth. This is particularly useful when planting a large number of seeds or seedlings, ensuring even spacing and planting depth across the garden bed.

Using an istutuspuikko is straightforward. The pointed end is pressed into the soil to the desired depth, creating a hole. For seeds, the seed is then dropped into the hole and lightly covered with soil. For seedlings or bulbs, the hole is made, the plant or bulb is placed inside, and then the surrounding soil is gently pushed back to cover it. The tool's simplicity makes it accessible to gardeners of all skill levels. While often associated with traditional gardening methods, the istutuspuikko remains a practical and efficient tool for many horticultural tasks.