Prepare your garden for planting using a rototiller or cultivator.
Tools and Materials
Preparation
1. Select a rototiller based on the size and labor requirements of the chosen planting area.- Rear-tine rototillers typically are the largest and have the most power with a gas engine and a tilling width of 12 inches to 24 inches. They're most popular for breaking up native (untilled) soil and quickly adding soil amendments in larger gardens.
- Front-tine rototillers are powered by smaller gas engines with 12-inch- to 36-inch-wide tines used to till established gardens.
- Cultivators are even smaller and are powered by gas or electric motors. They’re designed to remove weeds and turn soil near existing plants.
TIP: Four-cycle gas engines typically are larger and have more power than two-cycle engines. Four-cycles run on gasoline; two-cycles require a mixture of gas and oil as indicated by the manufacturer.
2. Make sure that the selected garden area doesn't have underground utility lines that can be damaged by digging tools. Before digging or cultivating a new garden, call 811 to be connected with the local utility companies. They'll mark your utility lines for you.
3. For new gardens, first remove the sod and any rocks or stones. For existing gardens, pull up any thick weeds; smaller weeds will be chopped up by the tiller.
Before operating a rototiller or cultivator, thoroughly read the manufacturer’s operating manual for specific guidance and safety tips. If you have additional questions, contact the manufacturer directly. For general questions on rototilling and gardening, discuss the job with a Lowe's associate or call a professional for help.
Rototilling a Garden
1. Read the rototiller manufacturer’s instructions carefully to become familiar with the controls and how to operate it safely. Make sure to wear the appropriate safety gear and clothing when tilling.2. Set the tiller for the appropriate depth. Use a shallow setting to start on hard, compacted soil. For softer ground, start at a medium setting.
3. Start the tiller, following the manufacturer’s directions.
4. Engage the tines and slowly make parallel passes across the garden. Let the tiller do the work.
5. Once you've tilled the entire garden, adjust the tiller to its deepest setting and begin making passes perpendicular to the first pass rows. Walk slowly and let the machine do the work.
6. Continue tilling until the soil is broken up to a depth of about 8 inches.
Your garden soil should now be loose, fluffy and finely textured — perfect for planting a great garden.
Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. Please read our terms of use.