Re: tiller recommendations

**P* G* <P*@verizon.net>**

Hi, Doug,

When installing new beds for a landscape design project I use an air  
spade tool.( Well, really, the crew does. But, I have operated it).  
Its especially effective when working around existing trees, shrubs,  
irrigation and electrical lines because it lifts the soil without  
damaging any of the aforementioned.

The tool itself cost around $1800. The compressor, necessary for  
making it work is quite expensive although one can be rented  
economically when needed. You'll need a hitch for transporting the  
compressor. I can borrow a compressor from a plumber friend on  
occasion, maybe you could tool share as well.

> I was introduced to the tool at a Bartlett Tree symposium. The  
> arboriculture industry uses it for radial trenching, root pruning  
> and alleviating compacted soils around trees.  I extended the idea  
> to compacted soils all around the garden. Its great! It doesn't  
> take muscle and its easy to work with on a hillside. You can  
> quickly till to 8" in depth. We have also used it to "dig" holes  
> for trees and water features. Air spading 8" at time then scooping  
> out the loose soil till the required depth is reached.

I've included the link to their website. But in my opinion, they  
could do a better job of selling its benefits to the landscape industry.
www.air-spade.com

This is not the tool that would replace the need for a tractor with a  
subsoiler for a large scale project. But, for renovating around an  
existing garden and creating smaller beds its ideal.

Phyllis

On Aug 23, 2008, at 7:58 PM, Doug Green wrote:

>
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