Before seeds can take root, the soil must be ready – from ancient fields to modern
farms, this truth has been passed down over the centuries – because soil readiness
remains the first step toward every successful harvest.
Larry Morris, Husqvarna Area Business Manager for the Western Cape, says that it
is not just about clearing ground, it’s about understanding your terrain, choosing the
right tools, and setting up conditions that give crops the best possible start. “If you
treat your soil well, it will pay you back with healthy plants and stronger yields.”
So, what does proper ground preparation look like in practice for small-scale
farmers, plot owners, and avid gardeners? Morris shares a few practical tips:
1. Don’t go deeper than you need to
Healthy soil develops in layers, and breaking up those layers unnecessarily can
do more harm than good. In most cases, turning just the top 5–8 cm is enough to
create a fine tilth (loose, fertile soil that allows roots to grow easily), encouraging
air, water, and nutrients to circulate freely. For this, a lightweight garden tiller or
cultivator attachment is ideal. These smaller machines are designed for surface
work, making them easier to manoeuvre between rows and around beds without
adding to soil compaction.
2. Timing is everything
Work the soil when it’s moist, not wet or bone dry. Overworking wet soil causes
clumping and damages its structure, while dry soil just turns to dust. A simple test:
take a handful and squeeze. It should hold its shape lightly, then crumble when
pressed. Spring, when the ground begins to warm, is usually the best time.
Husqvarna tillers, available in various sizes, offer flexibility for preparing soil when
conditions are right, whether you're planting vegetables or maintaining large
paddocks.
3. Know when to go deeper
Compacted ground can restrict root growth and reduce water absorption. If you
notice poor drainage or stunted plants, it may be time to dig deeper. A powerful
rear-tine tiller is designed to break through hard layers, aerating the soil and giving
roots room to thrive. For larger fields, a two-pass system is effective: starting
shallow to break the crust, then going deeper to lift and loosen the soil properly.
4. Straight lines, steady passes
Consistency is key. When using a tiller, work in parallel lines across the field. Don’t
force or push down on the handles; let the weight and power of the machine do
the hard work. On slopes, work across rather than up and down to avoid water
run-off and erosion. For beginners, adjustable handle heights help to maintain
balance and rhythm, making long stretches more manageable.
5. No-dig methods matter too
Not every plot needs to be disturbed. For beds that are already healthy, layering
organic matter, such as compost, manure, grass clippings, or mulch on top, can
naturally boost fertility. Over time, earthworms and microbes will pull these
nutrients deeper into the soil. For smaller gardens or orchards, a battery trimmer
with a tiller or dethatcher attachment can help mix organic matter lightly into the
top layer without heavy digging.
6. Safety first
Preparation should never come at the cost of safety. Always clear the area of
stones, wire and debris before tilling. Wear gloves, sturdy shoes and eye
protection, and ensure bystanders, especially children, are kept at a safe distance.
Modern machines are designed with safety features such as adjustable speeds
and counterweight balance, but understanding your equipment and working at a
steady, controlled pace is the best safeguard.
For beginners, these tips lay the groundwork. For experienced growers, they reaffirm
that even trusted practices benefit from occasional reinforcement, especially as tools
evolve and conditions change.
“Healthy soil is the starting point of every harvest,” notes Morris. “With seasonal
timing, sound technique, and the right tools, like those from Husqvarna, land
preparation shifts from chore to investment,” he concludes.
For more information about Husqvarna’s wide range of tilling power tools, please
visit:
http://www.husqvarna.com/za/tillers
ENDS
WORD COUNT: 670
Press Release Disseminated on Behalf of:
Timothy Isabirye
Marketing Manager: Husqvarna South Africa
About Husqvarna
Husqvarna, a brand within Husqvarna Group, is a market leader in innovative and high-
quality products and services for shaping green spaces in parks, forests and gardens. Since
1689, Swedish-born Husqvarna has a strong focus on research and development and is a
pioneer in robotic lawn mowers and chainsaws. Today, the product portfolio consists of the
next generation of robotic mowers, riders, chainsaws and trimmers for professional as well
as private use. Sustainable value creation, product innovation and digitalization remain
important for the journey ahead. Husqvarna products are sold in more than 100 countries.
Husqvarna Group, which also includes Gardena and Husqvarna Construction, has 13,300
employees in 40 countries around the world and net sales in 2024 amounted to SEK 48,4
billion. Husqvarna Group is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.