the old grind
Elite Member
- Joined
- Jul 21, 2012
- Messages
- 4,412
- Location
- Mid-Michigan
- Tractor
- NH T-1520 HST, NH TC33DA HST, Case DX26 HST, .Terramite T5C, . NH L785
IMO it's neither the tiller or the tractor by themselves that compact heavy soils. Clay will compact itself, and 'fluffing' up the coarser elements will allow the fines to work their way below them and settle. We get the same effect with crusher run on our driveways, no?
While I like the tiller for its versatility, an occasional deep plowing will 'turn things over' and is a must have with clay or other heavy bases. What's different with our varying soil types is but a matter of how often it's needed to 'stir' our buckwheat, clover, compost, or other biomass down to, or below, root level.
Perhaps the OP can co-op some sharing of tools for each task. I'd bet if he just buys one of everything someone will come around to borrow them ...
While I like the tiller for its versatility, an occasional deep plowing will 'turn things over' and is a must have with clay or other heavy bases. What's different with our varying soil types is but a matter of how often it's needed to 'stir' our buckwheat, clover, compost, or other biomass down to, or below, root level.
Perhaps the OP can co-op some sharing of tools for each task. I'd bet if he just buys one of everything someone will come around to borrow them ...
