I recently bought a property with raised garden beds, but the soil is uneven and compacted. I'm planning to buy new soil but need advice on the best single tool to break up and mix the compacted soil. Since my budget is tight, I'd prefer to know about just one effective tool at this time.
2 Answers
A power rototiller is definitely a solid option! I've found that tilling every 3 or 4 years makes a big difference. I tried doing it by hand last year and regretted it—it took ages! Thankfully, I had a rototiller from my in-laws that got the job done in no time.
If you're looking for something simpler, consider a stirrup hoe. It's perfect for loosening the top layer of soil without messing up its structure. Also, a garden rake and a spade are super handy too. If your raised beds haven't been walked on, the soil may not be too compacted after all!
Yeah, I agree! A stirrup hoe can really preserve soil quality while still doing the job.
True! A good rake is key. It can help spread compost or mulch effectively.