February 10, 2013

Breaking up is hard to do!

After only using a tiller to work most of my gardens, I know that I can only work the ground to a certain depth. Over the years I have developed a "Tiller HardPan". Basically, it is when the soil is compacted and can't be broken up. It doesn't allow roots to grow down into it and can inhibit some vegetable growth. For example, we have had carrots grow down 6 to 8 inches and then turn right. The reason for this is because they can't break through the hardpan. I have also seen this with sweet potatoes. Well hardpan no more! Since I bought a little tractor, I am ready to take care of this hardpan. I have a 3 point tool bar and now I am ready to use it. Here is the Kubota with the single shank ripper. It would rip down 12 to 15 inches. It did great! I was surprised at how deep it went. I only spun the tires a few times! Photobucket Here is a picture of the ripped ground. Photobucket Photobucket I will finish the other fields soon and maybe try to rip the beds in the big high tunnel.
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