Hand cultivators photo

Tips for choosing an electric cultivator

The cultivator is a hand-held garden unit that does an excellent job of weeding, loosening the soil and removing weeds. The models on the market differ in weight, power, processing area and number of cutters. It is also necessary to pay attention to the additional functions of the model, for example, the presence of a cutter speed controller, with which you can select the optimal operating mode.

When choosing an electric cultivator for your dacha, take into account the type of soil to be processed, the features, topography and area of ​​the site, as well as the nature of the planned work. For example, compact models with good maneuverability are best suited for loosening flower beds in the country. In addition, the owner will not have to pay for excess power.

How to choose a cultivator - main points

The choice of a cultivator, like any technically complex product, is based, first of all, on an understanding of how useful certain characteristics of it are in a particular farm. When looking closely at a cultivator, a potential consumer should pay attention to the following parameters of these products. Knowing the characteristics will make it easy to understand how to choose a cultivator for your garden without spending extra money.

In this video: why you need a cultivator and what it can do.

Power. For gasoline positions, the power value is expressed in horsepower (hp). Electrical products measure their power capacity in kilowatts (kW).

The standard power range for any line of motor cultivators is from 4 hp. up to 8 hp The best option, combining efficiency along with sufficient power, is to choose a product with 6-6.5 hp.

This value will allow a gasoline machine to cope not only with land that is plowed year after year, but also with virgin soil.

Working width. This value depends on the distance between the leftmost and rightmost cutter. For amateur, non-professional products made in China, this characteristic is usually limited to 850 mm.

If the working body of the cultivator has four or more cutters, the owner has the opportunity to change the working width - reduce it by removing cutters, and increase it, on the contrary, by increasing them.

For example, having six rows of cutters on the working shaft, the CARVER T-650R cultivator is able to offer the summer resident three options for tillage widths - 30, 55 and 85 cm.

Processing depth. For an average cultivator, this value is usually 33 cm and implies that the model is equipped with cutters of a standard diameter. Some models, despite considerable power, may have a reduced plowing depth.

For example, the Energoprom MK-700 model has a processing depth of only 30 cm due to the small diameter of the cutters, the size of which can be estimated by looking at the image.

Gear type. Some low-power and lightweight models of cultivators are equipped with only one gear - for forward movement. The light weight of such positions allows a person to easily turn such a machine around with physical effort.

In the case of heavier models, the ability to reverse is a necessity, because it is quite difficult to independently cope with a mechanism that weighs more than fifty kilograms (55-60 kg is the weight of an average cultivator with a power of, for example, 6.5 hp).

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Type of drive. As noted earlier, the motor cultivator can have two drive options - electric and gasoline. A model with an electric drive is much cheaper - its cost varies from 5 to 12 thousand rubles.

Due to its compactness, this position can be used for processing flower beds without fear of damaging the stems and roots of plants. On the other hand, the constant need to be connected to a source of electric current significantly limits the scope of work, so choosing a cultivator with a gasoline engine is a more optimal option.

Engine's type. There are two options available - two-stroke and four-stroke. Most models of cultivators on the market have four-stroke engines, but there are also two-stroke varieties of low power.

A two-stroke engine is easier to maintain and repair, but it has one big drawback - the noise level during operation of engines of this type is much greater than that of their four-stroke counterparts.

Important: Do not forget that two-stroke engines are lubricated by adding the appropriate oil to the fuel in a ratio of 40:1 (40 - gasoline, 1 - oil). Failure to follow this recommendation will quickly damage the cylinder-piston group of such a motor, which will entail expensive non-warranty repairs.

Engine manufacturer. On the engines of some cultivator positions you can find familiar inscriptions of automobile brands - “HONDA”, “SUBARU”.

This is a little misleading for many consumers, since these famous automakers do not produce cultivators. The logo on the body of the product only indicates that this company was involved only in the production of gasoline engines.

HONDA and SUBARU engines, like everything produced under the auspices of popular global manufacturers, have one big drawback - the ubiquity of fakes.

Therefore, if you see a well-known, proudly emblazoned inscription on a cultivator’s motor, but the model itself has a more than modest price, you can rest assured that this is a Chinese fake. A quality brand cannot be cheap, despite Henry Ford's beliefs!

In addition to the two listed brands, we can note several more motor manufacturers that are already familiar to the eye of the Russian consumer - “ZONGSHEN”, “LONCIN”, “BRIGGS STRATTON”.

The brand called “LONCIN” is especially well known on the Russian market, the motors of which are installed not only on cultivators, but also on snow blowers, walk-behind tractors and other gasoline-powered equipment with four-stroke engines.

It often happens that when selling a cultivator with such a motor, the seller also makes a certain markup for the brand, which in some cases can amount to several thousand rubles. On the part of the buyer, such an overpayment would be irrational, since the manufacturer is Chinese and, as they say, everything is done there at the same factory.

Product brand and country of origin. The majority of Russian consumers, remembering the bitter experience of the nineties, still have a negative attitude towards goods coming to our market from China.

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Regarding cultivators, many try to find Russian-made models and, buying products under brands such as KAMA or Energoprom, believe that they have succeeded.

However, names that have an original Russian sound are nothing more than an advertising ploy, and this is used by marketers of many trading companies (remember RASTISHKA yogurt, which, despite its domestic name, is produced far beyond Russia).

Most products in the economy segment have Chinese roots. But you shouldn't be afraid of this. Yes, the quality of Chinese goods is far from the level of European manufacturers, but this does not mean that the product will not withstand even several days of use.

Today, a Chinese manufacturer is quite capable of supplying a reliable cultivator to our market. There is no point in comparing low-grade goods that were on the shelves in the nineties and thrown away immediately after purchase and today's products. Peace, but its relationship with the price of Chinese goods has always been the most optimal.

Cultivators are also produced in European countries. For example, the Pubert brand has French roots. But the price of such a product will be appropriate (from 35,000 rubles). Based on all of the above points, you can easily carry out the process of choosing the right cultivator for your garden.

Selecting a model based on technical characteristics

Let's look at the features and differences of electric cultivators according to their main characteristics - weight, drive power, area and depth of processing, as well as the type and number of cutters.

Weight, power and processing area

Depending on the weight of the device, electric cultivators are divided into three groups - ultra-light, light, medium. The drive power and processing area depend on the value of this indicator:

• Ultra-light - mini-cultivators, weighing up to 10 kg and drive power up to 1000 Watts. Due to their compact size and good maneuverability, they are excellent at cultivating light soil in flower beds, greenhouses and row spacing. The working width does not exceed 30 cm.
• Lightweight - models weighing up to 20 kg and a power of no more than 1.5 kW. The processing width reaches 40 cm. Such devices are designed for processing pre-plowed land in dachas with an area of ​​8-10 acres.
• Medium - weighing up to 50 kg and an electric motor of 2-2.5 kW. Productive models for areas with difficult soil with an area of ​​more than 10 acres. They are distinguished by reliability and endurance. The average width of land coverage is 50 cm.

" Note! The absence of heavy models is due to the low power of the electric drive. If your site requires a machine weighing more than 50 kg, you should consider purchasing a powerful motor cultivator equipped with a gasoline internal combustion engine.”

Milling cutters

The number and speed of rotation of cutters affect the productivity of work. The number of knives for tillage varies between 2-6, depending on the type of model. On light models, the rotation speed of the cutters is higher, which compensates for the lack of weight.

The design of knives can be solid or collapsible. The second option is preferable, since models with removable cutters are much easier and cheaper to maintain.

Which cultivator to choose for your garden and garden?

According to their functional purpose, several types of equipment are distinguished:

• cultivators for continuous tillage;
• for inter-row loosening;
• pre-sowing cultivator used for loosening, breaking up soil and removing weeds.

One of the types of pre-sowing aggregate is the stubble one. It is necessary for daily soil cultivation and fallow care. Thanks to its design features, the machine effectively crushes weeds and promotes the deposition of minerals in the top layer of soil. This fertilizing improves soil quality and increases yield.

According to the control method, cultivators are divided into the following groups:

1. Mechanical . This hand tool looks like a long handle connected to gears. Its loosening depth is minimal (up to 5 cm), and its working width is up to 20 cm. With the help of such a unit, small weeds can be removed. Manual options are simple and reliable, while being affordable.
2. Electrical . Their main purpose is land work on land with difficult access for larger equipment. Movement is limited by the length of the cord and the location of the outlet.
3. Rechargeable . Such models retained the advantages of electric models, but received an autonomous power source. Thanks to him, such cultivators are mobile. However, it is worth remembering that the battery unit requires timely recharging.
4. Gasoline (they are also called walk-behind tractors). The most powerful and most productive models. Ideal for large areas.

Not all cultivators are suitable for most types of agricultural work. To choose the best option, you should take into account several criteria:

• machine power;
• width of the plowed surface;
• plowing depth;
• number of speeds.

Each of the parameters affects the performance and functionality of the device.

Unit power

The main parameter, measured in horsepower, is selected depending on the purpose of the device. The maximum figure today is up to 7 liters. With.

In small areas, using a high-power unit is not practical.

Conventionally, cultivators are divided according to power into several groups:

1. For greenhouse work and processing a small number of beds, equipment of 1-2 liters is sufficient. With.
2. Land with an area of ​​more than 7 but less than 10 acres requires the purchase of a 4-liter unit. With.
3. Large farmland will be easier to process if you purchase a 6-7 HP model. With.

Number of speeds

The technology differs in the number of speeds provided by the developers.

1. One speed (forward) involves simple manipulations of plowing the ground. At the end of the proposed bed, the plow will have to be manually removed from the ground and moved to the next bed. Models that are difficult to operate are suitable for male summer residents who are physically fit.
2. Two speeds: forward and reverse . The ability to move the machine backwards will allow you to effectively process the edges of the site. The plow can be turned at the right moment and then continue moving along the next lane. With such an assistant, it will be easier for women to cultivate crops.
3. Four speeds (two forward, two reverse) . Cultivators with such equipment provide maneuverability. They are indispensable for virgin fields or heavily overgrown areas. Due to the possibility of rotation at different speeds, you can easily remove roots and stems of plants wrapped around the plow.
4. Four speeds: three forward and one reverse . Such a unit is considered multifunctional: it fluffs up the soil, cuts furrows, and participates in the formation of small beds for planting seeds.

Cultivator weight

The cost of the tool varies depending on its weight category. The equipment on the market is divided into 4 groups:

1. Ultralight. They are recommended for women, since the weight of the device does not exceed 15 kg. The average width of cultivators is about 30 cm. With the help of such machines, you can effectively and quickly cultivate a small plot: remove weeds, landscape a flower bed or rose garden, loosen the soil even in hard-to-reach corners.
2. Products weighing from 35 to 40 kg are considered light. In one cycle they can cover a bed width of up to 40-50 cm. Units of this weight are more versatile, as they are suitable for processing areas of any size. However, there is a small drawback: when processing between beds, difficulties may arise due to the dimensions.
3. Average equipment can weigh about 65-70 kg, while plowing the soil to a depth of 25 cm. With one plowing, they can cover a strip of 80-90 cm. It will be easier for a strong man to operate such equipment than for a woman. However, these models are considered optimal for cultivating large areas.
4. Heavy ones are usually used by large farms, as they belong to the category of professional equipment. With their help, it is easier to carry out various agricultural work.

A combined cultivator differs from simple analogues in the ability to add attachments to expand functionality.
The following can be used as attachments:

• hiller (a separate plow for creating even furrows), performs two functions at once: loosening and preparing holes;
• wheels that allow you to keep the unit strictly at a limited depth;
• pneumatic tires are necessary to increase the maneuverability of equipment;
• trolley to simplify the soil preparation process;
• harrow;
• wheel weights necessary for smooth movement of the plow;
• plow for digging up crop tubers;
• lugs for greater maneuverability;
• sweeping mechanisms.

The acquisition of several types of additional equipment significantly expands the capabilities of the equipment, facilitating manual labor.

Working width and plowing depth

For farmers, it is important what width of area the tool can cover, because the speed of work depends on this. This figure can range from 18 cm to 105 cm.

The greater the width of cultivation, the less time it will take to cultivate the land.

To work in greenhouse conditions, as well as in small flower beds, devices with a plowing width of up to 35 cm are sufficient. In this case, maneuverability and access to narrow places are ensured.

For processing open areas, it is better to choose equipment with maximum values.

The quality of the furrows and further planting of seedlings depends on how deep the mechanism plows the soil. Indicators of the possibility of deepening the plow vary from 11 cm to 35 cm.

According to the plowing depth parameter, there are three groups of products:

1. The minimum depth is suitable for planting crops planted in small beds.
2. The middle option is used when hilling hard soil. The parameter is from 15 to 20 cm.
3. The maximum cultivation depth is 35 cm. They are used in the process of cultivating virgin lands, when harrowing plots overgrown with weeds, and for planting crops with a strong root system.

It is not advisable to purchase equipment that is not suitable for its intended purpose.

Pros and cons of an electric cultivator

Compared to gasoline cultivators, models with electric drives have the following advantages:

• Ease of use - no need to adjust the carburetor, adjust the accelerator and constantly monitor the fuel level;
• Ease of maintenance - for uninterrupted operation at the dacha, it is enough to regularly lubricate the moving parts and follow the rules for changing the oil or belt in the gearbox;
• Low costs – paying electricity bills is cheaper than purchasing fuels and lubricants;
• Compact size, good maneuverability and low noise level during operation;
• No harmful emissions that pollute the atmosphere.

Along with the advantages, there are a number of disadvantages:

• The range of the device is limited by the length of the cord for connecting to the power source. There are battery-powered cultivators on the market that do not have this drawback, but they are characterized by low power and short operating time. Please note that the battery life does not exceed 200 cycles.
• Low productivity - for virgin soil it is better to purchase a motor cultivator, since even the most powerful electric models are designed for cultivating light soil.
• Most models are not designed for the installation of auxiliary attachments, which limits the functionality of the devices;
• Dependence on weather conditions - the electric cultivator cannot be used during rain, due to the risk of electric shock.

Possibilities of a manual cultivator in a summer cottage - advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of such a device include:

• compact dimensions;
• good functionality;
• affordable price;
• ease of use.

Such manual labor tools can be used in any area of ​​the garden or vegetable garden, in a greenhouse, in flower beds, flower beds, and even when working with indoor plants, as manufacturers offer a wide range of sizes.

With their help, caring for beds and plantings is simplified. The tool will easily loosen the soil, ensure its good air permeability, improve plant growth and facilitate weed control.

Unlike walk-behind tractors and electric or gasoline cultivators, they do not require:

• regular maintenance;
• purchasing fuel and engine oil;
• purchasing parts and carrying out expensive repairs;
• They can be used not only by people of working age, but also by elderly pensioners, and even children.

Unlike mechanized equipment, they can be used in areas of any size, preserving crop plants from damage.

The disadvantages of such garden tools include the impossibility of using them on large plots of land, where they cannot compete with self-propelled equipment. They are not suitable for cultivating virgin lands.

Another disadvantage is that it is impossible to adjust the tool to a particular depth of penetration into the ground. It should be remembered that such garden equipment should be used for its intended purpose, in this case it will be possible to achieve good results in growing vegetable, fruit and horticultural crops.

Features of the 5 in 1 manual cultivator on video:

By choosing the right hand cultivator, you can significantly increase the productivity of manual labor by producing:

• loosening the beds;
• hilling of plants;
• weed control;
• sowing or digging potatoes;
• processing of plants in greenhouses, flower beds and alpine slides.

To achieve high-quality results, you need to choose the right hand cultivator. The stores offer models of different sizes and weights. These factors, as well as functionality, must be taken into account. A properly selected hand cultivator can help not only with planting and growing plants, but also with harvesting.

To increase labor productivity, you can purchase a compact manual motor cultivator, the weight of which will not exceed 10 kg. Women and elderly people will be able to work with such equipment.

Hand-made one-wheel cultivator on a rubber wheel, made by yourself - description in the video:

Safety precautions when working with an electric cultivator

Modern models of electric cultivators for summer cottages are distinguished by their high safety performance. However, neglecting the operating rules can lead to dire consequences.

We present a number of basic requirements that must be observed when using an electric cultivator:

• Store the device in a dry place;
• Before starting work, inspect the cultivator for damage;
• Do not use cables with damaged insulation;

A complete list of requirements for safe work performance is contained in the user manual.

Rating of electric cultivators

Let's consider the rating of the best electric cultivators for summer cottages, compiled based on reviews from owners.

Inexpensive models

Champion EC750

A compact and lightweight model that even the elderly can handle. It is distinguished by maneuverability and ease of transportation.

Judging by the reviews, the main drawback for owners of dachas and gardens is considered to be non-removable knives, which are very inconvenient to clean after finishing work.

DDE ET1200-40

A reliable and popular device, equipped with wheels for transportation and an adjustable handle. Will cope well with the treatment of plowed beds and greenhouses.

According to reviews from owners, the cultivator gearbox is quite capricious and requires careful attention.

Patriot Tesla 3

Small-sized model with support wheels, characterized by low noise level. Thanks to the folding handle, the device will not take up much space during transportation. The cultivator perfectly loosens pre-cultivated soil.

If you believe the reviews, the start button is located inconveniently - you have to turn on the device with both hands.

Middle segment

Daewoo Power Products DAT 1800E

A special feature of the cultivator is its housing, which is protected from dust and moisture. The folding handle makes it easy to store and transport the device. The coulter and 24 specially shaped cutters ensure high-quality plowing of the land in the country.

Negative reviews draw attention to the shallow loosening depth, which is incomparable with the power of the cultivator.

Elitech KB 4 E

A single-speed electric cultivator that goes deep into the ground on its own, requiring no effort from the operator. Rubberized handles and well-placed controls increase operating comfort. The model is designed for soil cultivation in small vegetable gardens, greenhouses and greenhouses.

In reviews, users indicate that the only drawback of the model is its heavy weight.

Greenworks GTL9526

A device with self-deepening, designed for loosening the soil in hard-to-reach places and weeding between rows. Support wheels and a folding handle simplify the process of operation and transportation. There is a built-in fuse against accidental activation.

In some reviews, owners write that the device heats up very quickly, which shortens the period of useful operation.

Dear segment

Eurosystems La Zappa 1300 W

A high-quality cultivator designed for cultivating summer cottages and vegetable gardens with an area of ​​up to 300 m2. Users note good handling and low noise levels. Suitable for processing light and medium soils.

In some reviews there are references to the weak design of the stop.

Hyundai T 2000E

Productive electric cultivator with built-in protection against accidental starting. The handle is height adjustable in 4 positions, adapting to the height of the operator. The presence of side edgers eliminates the possibility of damage to plants in the country. There is also a reinforced coulter with smooth adjustment of the working depth.

It is suitable for processing medium and complex soils, but it will not cope with virgin soil - there is not enough power.

Daewoo Power Products DAT 2500E

A powerful model with a reinforced coulter and transport wheels of increased diameter that easily overcome obstacles and uneven surfaces. The reliable asynchronous motor practically does not heat up during operation. The cultivator is distinguished by its quality. The guaranteed service life of the chain reducer is 100 years.

Judging by the reviews, some owners of the device had difficulties during assembly due to incomplete information in the instructions from the manufacturer.

The most powerful

Daewoo Power Products DAT 2000E

An excellent cultivator that combines compact size and efficient operation. The model is distinguished by its build quality. Forged cutters cope well with both light and clay soils.

The reviews write that the standard cord is not enough for normal operation - you need to purchase an extension cord.

Hammer EC1500

A lightweight cultivator that can be operated even by older people. Thanks to the ergonomic design of the handles, you can work with the device for a long time with minimal effort. There is a built-in vibration suppression mechanism.

In some reviews, owners complain about loud noise during operation.

Zigzag ET 214

A powerful electric cultivator designed for processing large areas, up to 20 acres. The engine is enclosed in an aluminum housing with fins for effective heat dissipation during operation. Suitable for all types of soil, including virgin summer cottages.

If you believe the reviews, the instructions from the manufacturer are not clear - some owners had difficulties assembling the device.