How to Buy a Tiller

If you do a lot of gardening, consider buying a tiller. Sometimes called power cultivators, a tiller can dig as deep as 8 inches deep into the soil to loosen and aerate it. Tillers are also good tools for keeping the weeds out of the garden. Here are a few guidelines for when you buy a tiller.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Figure out what size you need. If you have a small garden space and don't plan on expanding its size, you can get by on a small-sized tiller. If you have a larger garden, look at a larger model tiller.

2. Determine if you want a two- or four-stroke engine on your tiller. If you buy a two-stroke engine, you need to purchase special oil and mix it with gasoline. A four-stroke engine burns gasoline.

3. Decide if you want a front- or rear-tine tiller. A front-tine tiller is less expensive. It doesn't till the soil as deeply as a rear-tine tiller. A rear-tine tiller is easier to use as well. As an added bonus, many rear-tine tillers have reverse on them, which it makes it easy to maneuver them in the garden.

4. Ask your gardening friends what kind of tiller they recommend that you buy. See if you can try their tillers. If the tiller is too hard to use, don't buy that kind.

5. Research the various models of tillers available in your local stores. Find a tiller that has good reviews from experienced gardeners.

6. Buy your tiller from a reputable dealer. Make sure you know all about the warranty. Also, make sure you know what to do when your tiller needs service.