What is a rotary hoe used for?

What is a rotogriffe?

This special garden claw consists of a handle and a head fitted with 3 to 5 helicoid teeth. The handle is often long (at least 100 cm) and ends in a sort of “S” shaped grip that allows the tool to be inserted into the soil and gives it a slightly circular movement. This famous “S” grip is designed to reduce effort. The claw head, on the other hand, is made of stainless steel.

Long-handled models allow for working while standing with a straight back. This type of tool helps prevent injuries and muscle strain. This is the case with the Rotogrif’ Leborgne 4 teeth.

However, there are also mini rotogriffs with much shorter handles (30-40 cm, or just a simple grip). They are used while squatting, kneeling, or in raised beds or planters. This is the case with the Mini Rotogrif’ 3 teeth Leborgne.

On the left, the Rotogrif Leborgne 4 teeth

Une rotogriffe est un outil de jardinage utilisé principalement pour aérer le sol et préparer les lits de semences. Elle permet de décompacter la terre, d'incorporer des amendements organiques et de favoriser une meilleure circulation de l'air et de l'eau dans le sol. Cet outil est particulièrement utile pour les jardiniers souhaitant améliorer la structure du sol et optimiser la croissance des plantes.

The rotary hoe loosens the top layer of soil, approximately 10-15 cm deep. This tool is ideal for nature-friendly gardens, as it does not turn over the different layers of soil and does not harm the soil fauna. With this tool, one can:

• Loosen the soil before sowing or to break up a crust formed after heavy rain;
• Air the soil around plants in the vegetable garden or ornamental garden;
• Mix compost or potting soil into the surface soil;
• Air the compost heap;
• Weed or hoe between plants: only in well-worked or naturally loose soils;
• Harvest small potatoes.

How to use a rotary hoe?

Using a rototiller is relatively simple. Just push the head into the soil by stepping on it, then make rotary movements at the handle. Remove the tool and start again in another spot. And so on…

Note that the rototiller or rotary claw is really effective only in well-worked or naturally loose soil. In heavy, compact, stony soil or where vegetation is too dense, prefer a fork-spade. However, you can still attempt to use a rototiller in heavy soils if it has fewer claws (3 maximum) and if they are shorter: this will facilitate penetration into the soil.

Don’t forget! : clean the claws with soapy water after each use to prevent soil from sticking to them. This will help avoid rust on your tool and ensure excellent penetration of the claws into the soil.