Small Farm Canada recently chatted with Chris Isaac, Product Manager, Kubota Canada, and asked him to share some essential tips for using the appropriate attachments for creating a new garden area on your small farm.
It’s all about ensuring your soil is ready for a crop or garden. Preparing for a small crop or garden should always start with soil preparation. If you are new to farming, understanding some of the attachments for your tractor can help you get the soil ready.
Chris highlights a few common attachments, such as plows, disc harrows, and tiller equipment for small-scale farming. He provided information on the usage for each type of attachment.
A plow is used for deeper soil penetration. It’s a good starting point when you are preparing a new garden area. When starting a new garden plot on your land, he recommends plowing a new garden area in the fall to allow the soil to go through the winter and early spring season to build up organic material.
However, when it is time to plant seeds, Chris cautions that a plow does not give great results for prepping your seedbed. So, in the spring, it is time for a disc harrow or other tillage tools, which will help break up and loosen the soil for seeding and allow for correct seed placement.
Timing is crucial; ensure the soil is sufficiently dry for optimal tilling. Local climate and soil type play vital roles, so seek advice from experienced gardeners in your area.
When it comes to tilling, there are two types: reverse tine tillers (should cover the width of the tires of the tractor) which turns in the opposite direction of the tractor, and forward tine tillers (great for heavy or rocky soil conditions), which might need multiple passes on the garden.
When matching your attachment with the tractor you have, there are three key factors to consider:
- Tractor Width
- Ground clearance
- Power Output
Proper setup of attachments on your tractor is essential for even tilling, especially on uneven terrain. Utilize the three-point hitch adjustability to maintain a level garden bed, ensuring water runoff and promoting consistent plant growth.
Finally, Chris suggests regular checks on how the attachment and tractor are running. Adjust how often you are checking on the equipment based on your property size and workload, ensuring a consistent and satisfactory outcome. Remember, a couple of passes and periodic checks ensure a quality garden without constant dismounting on and off the tractor.
Watch the video below with Chris’s recommendations: