As a general rule by the time that people get in touch with us they are fed up of the third option (spades) and are looking for something mechanical to help them dig their soil ready for planting.

The first thing to take on board is that the terms rotavator, tiller, cultivator, digger all pretty much apply to the same thing and the main choice is centred around size of machine and cost. Some brand names like "Merry Tiller" have also become common place descriptions for these general machine types these days. The smallest models tend to be either 2 or 4 stroke engines, weigh around 15 kilos (30-35 lbs) and are great at turning regularly dug soil. These machines are very portable and this makes them an attractive proposition for taking to allotments etc, but they are less capable of digging into heavy clay soil or compacted soil. Cost of these units is usually from about £250.00

The next stage up is normally a front or top mounted engine mounted over some heavy duty steel tines. Weight goes up to around 50 kilos (100lbs) and options such as reverse gears, and multiple forward gears can be offered. Although less portable they will normally have wheels to move around your garden or allotment, but will generall require two people to lift onto a car. Cost usually from about £450.00 to £1000 for domestic machines.

Finally we come to the rear tine machines. These are usually driven on the front wheels, with the tines behind digging the soil as you go forwards. This type of machine is longer and not ideal for small areas that require lots of turning, but they will provide an excellent finish on long strips or larger areas. On good soil they will effectively be self propelled as the driven wheels pull the machine forward. Because of the twin gearbox design weight goes up to 65 kilos (145 lbs) plus making transport an issue without a good trailer or suitable pick up/van. Price varies from about £600.00 to £6000.00 for the more commercial models.

And finally ROTAVATOR is a great palindrome if you are ever stuck in a pub quiz!!