Broadfork Tillage Tool

The Broadfork Tillage Tool (also called a U-bar digger) is used to loosen the soil for planting or adding soil amendments, such as compost or mulches, and to harvest root crops like potatoes, beets, carrots, etc. It deep-aerates while preserving the soil’s structure and minimizing weed seed surfacing. One applies his/her body weight (not back or arms) to sink the tines into the ground then rocks the long twin handles back and forth in a kind of rowing motion to loosen or till up the soil. The tool is available in various sizes-i.e., number of tines (4-12) and widths (14-22 inches). (Photo courtesy of Lee Valley Tools Ltd.)

Cost: $60-$220, depending size, number of tines, quality, etc.

Impairment Category: Back, Strength/endurance