Tilling Tips& Techniques

Let the tiller dothe work

While tilling, relax and let the wheels pull the tiller along while the tines do the digging. Walk on the side that is not yet finished (to avoid making foot- prints in the freshly tilled soil) and lightly, but securely grip the handlebar with just one hand.

Avoid pushing down on the handlebars in an attempt to force the tiller to dig deeper. Doing so takes the weight off the poweredwheels, causing them to lose traction. Without the wheels helpingto hold the tiller back, the tines will attempt to propel the tiller - often causing the tiller to skip rapidly across the ground. (Sometimes, slight down- ward pressureon the handlebarswill helpget through a particularly tough section of sod or unbroken ground, but in most cases this won'tbe necessary at all.)

Avoidtilling soggy,wet soil

Tilling wet soil often results in large, hardclumps of soil that can interfere with planting. If time permits, wait a day or two after heavyrains to allow the soil to dry before tilling. Test soil by squeez- ing it into a ball. If it compresses too easily, it is too wet to till.

Avoid making footprints

When possible,walk on the untilled side of the unit to avoid makingfootprints in the freshly tilled soil. Footprintscause soil compaction that can hamper root penetrationandcontribute to soil erosion. They can also "plant" unwanted weed seedsback into the freshly tilled ground.

Choosing correct wheel

and tine speeds

If the garden sizewill not permit lengthwise and then crosswise tilling, then overlap the first passesby one- half a tiller width, followed by succes- sive passesat one-quarter width (see Figure4-8).

With planning, you can allow enough room between rows to cultivate (see Figure4-9). Leaveroom for the hood width, plus enough extra room for future plant growth.

Figure 4-6

Tilling depths

• Avoid trying to dig too deeplytoo

quickly, especially when busting sod or

when tilling soil that hasn'tbeentilled

for some time. Useshallow depth reg-

ulator settings (only an inch or two

deep) for the first passesthrough the

garden area. With each succeeding

pass,adjust the depth regulator to dig

another inch or two deeper. (Watering

the garden areaa few days prior to

tilling will maketilling easier,as will

letting the newly worked soil set for a

day or two before making a final, deep

tilling pass.)

• When cultivating (breaking up the

With experience,you will find the "just right" tilling depth andtilling speed com- bination that is best for your garden.

Set the EngineThrottle Control Lever to a speed to give the engineadequate power and yet allow it to operate at the slowest possible speed...at least until you have achievedthe maximum tilling depth you desire. Fasterengine speeds may bedesirable when making final passesthrough the seedbed or when cultivating. Selectionof the correct engine speed, in relation to the tilling depth, will ensure a sufficient power levelto do the job without causingthe engine to labor.

r

y

V

Figure4-7

surface soil around plantsto help

destroy weeds), use very shallow depth

settingsto preventinjury to plantswhose

rootsoftengrow closeto the surface. If

needed,lift up onthe handlebarsslightly

to preventthe tinesfrom diggingtoo

deeply. (Cultivatingona regularbasis

not only eliminatesweeds,it also loosens

andaeratesthe soil for bettermoisture

absorptionandfaster plantgrowth.)

Suggestedtilling patterns

When preparinga seedbed,go over the same path twice in the first row, then overlap one-half the tiller width on the rest of the passes(see Figure4-6). When finished in one direction, make a second pass at a right angle as shown in Figure4-7. Overlapeach passfor best results (in very hard ground it may takethree or four passesto thoroughly pulverizethe soil).

Figure4-8

Figure 4-9

Page 14
Image 14
Troy-Bilt 664DM Avoid trying to dig too deeplytoo, When tilling soil that hasntbeentilled, Garden areaa few days prior to

E666MM, 664DM specifications

The Troy-Bilt 664DM and E666MM models are well-regarded in the realm of outdoor power equipment, particularly within the segment of garden tillers. Both tillers are designed to deliver exceptional performance, making them ideal choices for home gardeners and landscaping enthusiasts alike.

The Troy-Bilt 664DM features a robust 210cc engine that provides ample power for breaking up hard soil and preparing garden beds. Its 18-inch tilling width allows for efficient coverage, making quick work of larger plots of land. One of the key features of the 664DM is its dual-direction tilling capability, which means it can till forward and backward. This innovative design helps to improve soil aeration and allows for a more thorough mixing of soil, compost, and nutrients. With a convenient depth adjustment feature, users can easily modify the tilling depth to accommodate different gardening needs, ranging from shallow tilling for seedbed preparation to deeper tilling for planting.

On the other hand, the Troy-Bilt E666MM goes above and beyond with its innovative features tailored for ease of use and efficiency. Powered by a 270cc engine, this tiller is engineered for heavy-duty tasks and can handle larger areas with ease. It boasts a 16-inch tilling width and a maximum tilling depth of up to 12 inches, making it an excellent option for breaking new ground or revamping existing gardens.

A standout feature of the E666MM is the inclusion of Troy-Bilt’s patented "Power Reverse" technology. This allows operators to effortlessly reverse the tilling direction, reducing the effort required when maneuvering in tight spaces or around garden obstacles. Additionally, the E666MM includes a durability-enhancing cast iron gear case and sealed ball bearings, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance experience.

Both models emphasize user comfort with ergonomic handlebars and adjustable grips, minimizing strain during extended tilling sessions. The easy-to-start engines incorporate advanced combustion technology, promoting fuel efficiency while reducing emissions.

In summary, the Troy-Bilt 664DM and E666MM tillers standout in the garden tilling market for their robust construction, cutting-edge technologies, and user-friendly characteristics, making them suitable choices for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to elevate their outdoor gardening projects.