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The compact Mantis Two-Cycle Tiller/Cultivator delivers big power yet weighs only 20 lbs. We also like how well this mini-machine maneuvers in tight spaces, especially along fences and walls.

It breaks through hard-packed sod and clay faster and easier than a garden spade or shovel. And lifting it up onto raised garden beds is no problem.

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The Garden Weasel Claw made our list because it eliminates bending or kneeling down — perfect for anyone with back troubles. The cultivating forked end is made of sturdy alloy steel. A simple twist cultivates, loosens, aerates and weeds, no matter the type of soil you’re turning.

The Claw comes assembled with a T-shaped handle that’s a cinch to store. Just hang on a hook.

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For owners of Ego Multi-Head Systems (available separately), the compatible Ego Power+ Cultivator Attachment gives you the freedom to churn over topsoil anywhere on your property.

It’s powered by a 56-volt lithium-ion battery. Simply click the attachment into the solid steel shaft and go to work. Heavy-duty steel tines adjust from 8- to 9-1/2-inches. The variable-speed trigger lets you to increase the force for digging in denser dirt, then reduce it when working in softer soil.

What to Consider When Buying a Garden Cultivator

A few essential things to consider when shopping for the best garden cultivator:

• Plot dimensions: Size matters. With a larger cultivator, you can work a big area more efficiently. For a tiny garden, a hand-held cultivator may be all you need. “Smaller gardens may require a compact, handheld cultivator, while larger areas might benefit from a more powerful gas or electric model,” says Friemuth.
• Depth and type of soil: Are you working with rocky or clay soil, or planting in soft flower beds? If the former is the case, you may need a combo cultivator/tiller. “Look for cultivators with adjustable depth settings to have better control over how deep the machine goes into the soil,” shares Friemuth.
• Ease of use: Wheeled cultivators increase mobility and offer better traction, especially for uneven and hilly terrain. “Look for extra-large handles with a comfortable grip,” Dubow says.
• Power: Options include gas or electric (cordless or corded). For cordless, choose one with a long-lasting battery pack. For corded, be sure there’s an electrical outlet nearby and/or use a long extension cord.
• Material: Since these tools live outside, whether kept in a shed or not, look for durable materials like steel. If you want wood handles, find ones that can be removed and replaced.
• Tine/blade length: The tine length determines how deeply you can cultivate the soil. Four inches is standard, and Dubow says you don’t need to go longer than six inches.
• Weight: If you’ve got raised flower beds or narrow rows of plantings, the lighter and more compact a cultivator is, the easier it is to handle.
• Cost: You can spend anywhere from $15 and $600 depending if the cultivator is hand-held or motorized, large or small.

Why You Should Trust Us

I am a culture and lifestyle writer with extensive experience in review/product content and landscaping and gardening content. So, I know how to find durable, reliable products that will work for any type of gardener. Other topics I’ve researched and written about include stand-up weed pullers, lawn aerators and cordless snow blowers.

For this piece, we consulted Bill Friemuth and Katie Dubow. Bill is the president of Centurion Brands. He’s a seasoned expert in garden tools, appearing on QVC and HSN and addressing audiences at events like the Philadelphia Flower Show. Katie is a gardening expert and president of Garden Media. She travels the world scouting and presenting garden trends to different audiences.

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