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Rototiller
Gardening is fun. Back-breaking digging isn't. That's why I use a tiller in my garden. Rototillers are a great way to dig rows for planting, cultivate, and more. With the large number of models out there, however, it's often hard for a gardener to decide how much power they need.
First patented in 1920, the rototiller has transformed home gardening. A typical unit is self-propelled via a small gas or electric engine. Some can also be dragged behind a lawn mower, ATV, or tractor. On the bottom of the device is a set of blades that digs up and disperses soil.
A good tiller will save hours of work and last many years. Depending on your needs, there are many different types of rototillers available. For heavy jobs, such as large vegetable gardens or dense soil, rear tine tillers are recommended. These workhouses will handle the toughest of jobs without breaking a sweat. Front line models are good for medium-sized jobs, such as digging beds or working with more established soil.
If you have a small garden or are working in a hard-to-reach place, consider a mini-tiller. These smaller models are electric-powered and available for under $100. Because of their low cost and easy portability, some people buy them as an accessory to a larger one. They use the big machine for the bulk of the work and the small one for harder to access areas.
Many consumers also like to rent a tiller for a short period of time, usually ranging from a day to a week. This has its advantages and disadvantages. If you only need the roto machine for a one-time job, then renting is a good way to save money. But renting can cost $100 or more plus the cost of gas. For that price, you could buy a low-end rototiller.
Even if you use it once a year, you are likely to save money over renting. Say, for instance, it costs you $75 to rent a medium-sized cultivator and you do so every spring. For $300 you could buy it at a local hardware store. After four years of renting the tiller, you would have paid the $300 it costs to own one. Any further years of renting would be money thrown away. Ten years of renting would cost $750. By purchasing a rototiller, you would save $450, not to mention you would have the freedom to use it any time!
This site highlights a number of rototiller models along with a brief review of each. The goal is help you find the right product for your needs. Have fun, but most importantly, stay safe!