How to choose the agricultural tiller for your soil

But how do you go about identifying the perfect model? In this article, we will explore the main factors to consider when choosing a tiller, while also analyzing some of the best options (all Italian) on the market.

Why choose an agricultural tiller?

The rotary tiller is used to prepare the soil for planting or to improve soil conditions. This machine crumbles and mixes the surface layer of soil, promoting the burial of crop residues and improving soil structure. It is ideal for crushing clods and reducing erosion, and allows optimal development of the root system of plants.


The main advantages of using the tiller:

- Improves soil quality: mixes organic residues into the soil to promote fertility;

- Facilitates tillage: simplifies the burial of crop residues and the preparation of the seedbed;

- Reduces soil compactness: prevents the formation of surface crusts, facilitating water penetration.

Factors to consider when choosing a rotary tiller

Choosing the right tiller depends on several factors, including the size of the land, the type of crop, and the power of the tractor available. Let's examine the various aspects.

1. Tractor power

The first aspect to evaluate is tractor power. The tillers must be compatible with the tractor's towing capacity to ensure efficient and safe operation.

Among the tillers proposed by Zanon are:

- the FZC tiller is ideal for 10-22 hp tractors, suitable for small plots or gardens;

- the FZE tiller is designed for 15-40 hp tractors, ideal for medium-sized farms;

- the FZG tiller: supports 20-60 hp tractors, perfect for larger plots and intensive work;

- New ZNO: for 45-120 hp tractors, designed for large-scale operations.

2. Working width

The working width of the rotary tiller determines the area that can be covered in a single pass. It is important to choose a width that fits the size of the land to be worked, optimizing time and resources.

- Small plots: widths of 84-140 cm, such as those offered by the FZC and FZE models.

- Medium-sized farms: widths of 140-207 cm, as in the FZG and ZLO models.

- Large farms: for larger plots, widths greater than 230 cm, as in the ZNO and ZLSO models.

3. Working depth

Working depth affects how deep the soil will be worked. Greater depth is useful for crops with deep roots or for compacted soils that require more aggressive tillage.

- Standard depth: 15-20 cm, sufficient for most horticultural crops.

- Deeper depths: up to 27 cm for more demanding work or hard soils.

4. Machine weight

The weight of the rotary tiller is a crucial factor, especially if the soil is difficult or uneven. A heavier machine provides greater stability but requires a more powerful tractor.

- light machines: such as FZC and FZE, suitable for light soil or domestic use.

- medium and heavy machines: such as FZG or ZNO, for larger farmland and professional work.

5. Accessories and additional options

Some models offer additional features, such as independent hydraulics for greater flexibility, or specific rotors for special machining operations.

- Independent hydraulics: useful for machines such as ZMV/A, allowing optimal control of rotary tillage.

- Horizontal-axis rotor: available in many milling machines, it ensures homogeneous tillage.

In addition to the rotary axis arrangement, attention should also be paid to the type of rotors, which can be fixed tine rotors, knife rotors, moving tine rotors, and disc rotors. Each type of rotor has specific characteristics that make it more suitable for certain soil conditions and types of work. With use, these components experience natural wear and tear. It is important to perform routine maintenance, regularly lubricate pivot points and bearings to reduce friction and prevent premature wear. Regularly clean the milling machine of soil, dust, and plant debris to prevent dirt buildup that could damage components.

The best rotary tillers available

Now that we've explored the factors to consider, here are some of the best made-in-Italy rotary tillers designed by Zanon currently on the market:

- FZC (10-22 hp): compact and lightweight, ideal for small soils or gardens. Perfect for those looking for an economical but efficient solution.

- FZE (15-40 hp): versatile and suitable for medium-sized soils. Offers excellent value for money.

- FZG (20-60 hp): excellent for medium to large farms. Robust and powerful, it can handle challenging soils.

- ZLO (25-80 hp): a modern milling machine designed for those seeking advanced technology and flexibility of use.

- ZNO (45-120 hp): a high-power machine for extensive soils, ideal for intensive agricultural operations.

Knowing the best agricultural tillers available on the market is the first step to start taking care of your soil. It is necessary, however, to remember that it is not the only agricultural equipment. If you want to go deeper and explore all the other equipment, read our article on the best soil tillage equipment.

Conclusions on how to choose the best milling machines

Choosing the right tiller for your soil is not a decision to be made lightly. To recap, it is essential to consider factors such as tractor power, working width and depth, as well as the weight of the machine. Whether you are dealing with small plots or large agricultural soils, there is an ideal tiller for every need.

Assessing the technical characteristics and specifications of your soil will help make the best decision, optimizing work time and improving agricultural productivity.

Want to find out which Zanon tiller is best suited to your needs? Contact us today and start working with maximum efficiency.