Mantis 4 Cycle Tiller
Even as we vacationed in Texas with family, I was secretly thinking of my gardens, little did I know I’d soon have a Mantis Tiller doing the work. Digging in the soil, preparing for summer harvest was in my future. Of course first thing was preparing the soil: pulling weeds, adding mulched compost/manure, loosening up the soil. I gathered all my gardening tools, I went out giddy with excitement, after a few back-breaking hours, I was less than thrilled.
After a few hours of back-breaking labor, these questions were running through my thoughts:
- My long list of tasks needing my immediate attention; I had to do a food plan for the day still!
- How urgent was this garden project really? Answer: very, as anyone who overlooked aggressive weeds knows.
- At the rate this project was going, the likelihood I’d get anything else done? Answer: You’ll collapse, starving, on the couch some 6 hours from now.
- How could I streamline working the soil? Answer: A tiller that is heavy, it’s too big for the job
After all the pros:
- New Power Tool
- Family members volunteering to use New Power Tool
- Lighter, more friable, soils
And the cons:
- The cost for such a small lightweight thing
- Assembly, looks like a lot of parts
- Engine maintenance
- Negative reviews about starting
I decided to take the plunge, worried that I’ve wasted money.
I broke down, before my back did, purchasing a Mantis Tiller, the 4 cycle model; my father drove home buying durable tools In reality, I’ve, secretly, wanted a Mantis since I saw my first Organic Gardening magazine. I knew I’ve spent too many years hand turning my gardens; I agreed with myself that I wanted needed a Mantis. I won’t lie: I did search for a codes for 10% off and with the free shipping.
I’m excitedly waiting for my new purchase to arrive and will be giving updates on this 4cc machine as soon as I can.
2014 Update:
- We’ve used this tiller for 4 years now and have never struggled starting the tiller; it is stored outside during northern Vermont winters. We do empty the fuel out in the fall, adding fresh fuel in the spring.
- Not only do we use this around our house, we do: Family gardens, and at camp: This tiller is durable
- Switching between the edger vs tiller blades is quick and easy.
- Assembly is a breeze
- Time Savings: Turning a small area is done in minutes, vs the hours hand turning takes
