Tiller Tiller vs Disker

Anonymous Poster · Oct 3, 2000

I am looking to buy a small tractor (about 25 hp) this summer, and about all I know about them I have learned through this forum. My question is, when would I use a disk attachment, and when would I use a tiller. I haven't noticed any of the "real" farmers in my area using a tiller, but I don't know why or why not.

Thanks

Anonymous Poster · Oct 3, 2000

Larry,
I think it will depend on what you intend to do with your land and how much you have. I purchased a disk last year, but I have about 35 acres and could not feasibly cover the 35 acres with a tiller. If you are going to use your tractor in a garden, then the tiller is probably the way to go. They do a good job of turning the land for planting, etc.

Tim

Bird · Oct 3, 2000

Disks are cheap (compared to tillers) and come in gigantic sizes. The "real" farmers use them extensively in this area. However, if you want the soil really broken up to a fine texture, there's nothing that will beat a tiller.

Bird

ERNIEB · Oct 4, 2000

I would add that if you need to incorporate some material into the soil,(fertilizer, compost, and such) a tiller would do a better job.
Ernie

geneP · Oct 4, 2000

Larry, You mentioned buying a small tractor. A tractor must have traction to pull a disk, especially if it cuts deeply. Most small tractors are lighter (thus less traction)than tractors real farmers use, especially some of the "grey market" tractors. If you decide on a disk, do your homework and get the correct size for your tractor.

Anonymous Poster · Oct 4, 2000

Thanks for the info, it is just what I was looking for. As I will probably plant about an acre, and will need to ammend the soil, I will probably get the tiller. Now if I can just decide which tractor (blue TC25D or orange B2710) and figure out how to pay for it I will be set. Thanks!

Bird · Oct 4, 2000

Larry, either one's a good tractor and you'll probably be happy with either one. Get a tiller that's the same or slightly wider than the outside of the rear tread on whichever tractor you buy, and you'll have a fine gardening machine.

Bird