Did you know that soil preparation is the single most important factor in having a successful garden? If you create healthy soil, the vegetables that grow in that soil will also be healthy. Using a Honda Tiller from Bates Hardware Company can help you cultivate great soil for your garden.

Before tilling the soil, it must be dry enough and warm enough. Test the soil by picking up a handful of soil and squeezing it. If the ball of soil falls apart in your hands, then it is dry enough for tilling. Conduct a second test by sticking your finger a few inches down, in the soil. If you are unable to keep your finger in the soil for one minute, than the soil is not warm enough. The soil needs to be at least 60° F for tilling and planting. 

Once the soil is ready, be sure to remove rocks and debris. You’ll also want to make sure your tiller is serviced and ready to go. Check out the Honda Owner’s Manual before operating the Tiller. Your Honda Tiller’s Owner’s Manual includes safety instructions, a check list before operating the tiller, maintenance schedule, parts, storage tips and warranty information.

Prepare the soil for planting by tilling the soil down to 12 inches. Go across the soil one row at a time, with the tiller, like you were mowing the lawn. Take your time tilling the soil. Do not go back over a row with the tiller because excessive tilling can compact the soil instead of breaking it up.

Your Honda Tiller also makes it easy to mix in any soil additives you need. At Bates Hardware Company, we usually recommend you add a mix of organic compost. 

Not sure which Honda Tiller will be right for your garden? Talk with our experts at Bates Hardware Company for advice. We can help you select the right tiller for your space.