5 Ways To Plow A Field - WikiHow

A rotary tiller is less labor-intensive than working by hand. It is best for smaller plots up to about five or six acres.

1. 1 Pick an appropriate tiller for the job. Most modern tillers come in one of two varieties: "front-line" (driven by the front wheels) and "rear-line" (driven by the rear wheels). Both will work for gardens and small fields, but if you have the choice, pick the type that's most appropriate.[3] See below:
   • Front-line tillers are typically easier to use and better for smaller gardening situations. They handle like a power lawnmower and can be used in tighter spaces than a rear-line tiller.
   • Rear-line tillers are better for bigger plowing jobs. They're bulkier and make wider turns, so use them away from plants and property you want to protect.
2. 2 Pick an appropriate tilling depth and speed. Almost all mechanical tillers allow you to adjust these settings with controls on the unit. As a general rule, harder, compacted soils require slower, shallower plowing.[4] Tilling too deep or too fast in this soil can overwork the motor. For established beds, you can use deeper, faster tilling.
3. 3 Till in straight rows. Position the tiller in the corner of your field where you plan on starting. Start the tiller with the starting mechanism. This can vary from unit to unit but is often similar to the type of mechanism you might expect on a lawn mower. Use the tiller's controls to slowly work your way down the plot in a straight line, turning around and doubling back at the end.[5]
   • Some tillers have a safety switch that prevents starting. If you can't get the tiller started, check for one of these.
4. 4 Re-till if needed to break down the soil. Be prepared to go over your work a second time with the tiller. Any clods of dirt should be broken into roughly dime-sized pieces or smaller. When you're finished, your plot should be tilled into a series of loose furrows so that water can drain to the edges.[6]
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