Tiller Tiller. Walk behind vs 3ph

[pickeringchris]

Because you can do it in 2 hours with a 20 inch tiller. That size garden would be a several hour job in my neighborhood for the first tilling of the spring when the soil is packed down from the winter.

Maybe 2 hours was a little optimistic.
I do have very high organic matter and the sand prevents compaction.

 

[bigtiller]

The horsepower question is one that has puzzled me also; and it doesn't just pertain to tillers either, look at chippers, etc., etc. Seems like most PTO powered implements come with a suggested/recommended HP. But...It's never exactly specified as to whether they mean "engine" or "PTO". I wonder if that's just a manufacture ploy to get you to call and inquire?
Like the OP states, I'd like to know just what PTO power is required to operate (effectively) any implement offered for sale.
Greg

I use the PTO Hp ratings. My 2305 has a 24 Hp engine and 18 Hp at the PTO. It doesn't sound like much difference but put into a percentage number it is a big deal.

 

[jenkinsph]

Maybe 2 hours was a little optimistic.
I do have very high organic matter and the sand prevents compaction.

For a small plot such as yours I suspect the Honda tiller you have is practical. If you had other needs for a larger 3ph tiller then I would use it initially each year and till between the rows with the smaller Honda.

A subsoiler would be the better addition as you mentioned, just make sure your tractor can handle it.

 

[WilliamBos]

If you are planting anything, unless you are planning on 60" rows, keep the Honda so you can till between them.

 

[DK35vince]

Your CK 27 should have no problem with a 60" tiller.
I recommend a 60" King Kutter II.

 

[pickeringchris]

I don't have rows.
I have 1 plant per 1000 sq'

 

[pickeringchris]

The big ugly guy on the left in both pics is me.

 

[pickeringchris]

The KK II. Looks like a stout unit. very reasonably priced.
Can't find a dealer in Canada And shipping would be crazy.
You know know of a dealer within 1 hour or so of buffalo ny?

 

[JoeBuyer]

I have a 3 pt Agric as well as a old 6hp Troybilt Horse rear tine, a large 8 hp BCS rear tine, an old 5 hp John Deere 524 front tine, an old Troy Bilt 3 hp front tine cultivator and two small Honda FC 110s. Of course I have three gardens in two locations and prep for 5 families, but I would not give up any of them. As previously mentioned, each has it's own use. The 3 pt is used in fall and spring, the two rear tines are used when the garden is starting and the plants are small yet weeds in full force. The little Hondas are used when the weeds have slowed down and the plants are larger, spreading into the rows.

 

[wcampbell47]

I garden in So. Texas gumbo which is now similar to concrete with the on going drought. My 48" PTO tiller is a life saver. At 64 I will not even think about chasing a tiller over my 35 x 70 garden. I can do in about 20 minutes what would take hours with a walk behind. Time is one of the most valuable assets you own. Go for the PTO tiller.