How to Use a Rock Rake to Make a Garden

The bane of all gardeners is rocks and other debris in the soil. The quickest solution may be using a rock rake. Here's how to clear the rocks out of your garden fast.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• tractor
• rock rake

1. Buy a rock rake that will fit on your brand of tractor. Before purchasing, think about how often you will use your rock rake. Prices vary widely, and rock rakes can be quite expensive. If you are thinking about planting a commercial garden, you may want to consider a higher end rock rake. On the other hand, for smaller plots of land, you may want to go with a smaller and less expensive rock rake.

2. Make sure your soil is fairly dry. If the soil is damp, the rock rake will also pull up bits of the soil along with the rock. However, if the soil is too dry, you can break the tines of the rock rake.

3. Find the right speed for your machine and rock rake. If you go too slowly, you will waste time. If you go too fast, the rock rake will be inefficient and you will not get the rocks out of the soil.

4. Organize your work. Try working your land one row at a time.

5. Enjoy your rock-free soil!

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using the rocks you extract as landscaping rocks.
• If you used your rock rake for a one-time project, consider selling it used, rather than having it sit around. There is a big demand for used farm equipment.
• Use appropriate safety equipment.