Using a powered rotavator

Rotavators speed up soil preparation but need careful handling, says Tim Rumball

- Tim Rumball

Powered tillers leave soil with a nice fine tilth ready for sowing or planting

IT’S tempting to imagine that a​ rotavator powered by a petrol engine makes the job of preparing a big area of soil for planting quick and easy. It’s true that it will speed things up considerably, but using garden machinery of this calibre takes quite a lot of physical effort as well as preparation.

What’s available

There are lots of different types of machine available. Tiny lightweight soil tillers are great for weeding between long rows of fruit or veg, or cultivating soil in a small bed, but you’ll need a bigger machine to tackle an allotment plot or for preparing a new lawn area.

Both front and rear-tine rotavators are available. The most powerful are usually rear-tine models that also have driven wheels. Bigger machines are expensive to buy, so renting one for a day is a good option. My local tool-hire shop offers a big machine for £60 a day, with delivery and collection at £15 (there’s also a £150 refundable deposit). Please note: in the current environment, it is unlikely you will be able to hire this equipment.

Preparation

Preparation is essential before you start turning the soil over. First, walk the whole area to be cultivated and pick up rubbish, debris and large stones that might damage rotavator blades. If the area is covered in big weeds like brambles, these should be removed as they can tangle in the cultivator blades.

Perennial weeds will regrow, so spray them in dry weather with a systemic, non-residual weedkiller. Leave it for two weeks and then rake up any debris and coarse material. If you prefer not to use chemicals, cut down big weeds to ground level, and dig out roots of brambles and other perennial weeds.