What is a Middle Buster and How Is it Used?

BUILDING A GARDEN USING A MIDDLE BUSTER

For those looking to build a large vegetable garden, having the right tools is critical to getting the job done as efficiently as possible. This is where the middle buster comes in. A middle buster is an implement that attaches to a hitch on the back of a tractor and is capable of completing a range of tasks, from digging furrows for vegetables to harvesting root vegetables like potatoes.

HOW DEEP CAN YOU DIG WITH A MIDDLE BUSTER?

In general, you’ll be able to dig as deep as your middle buster is tall. For the majority of common middle buster models, this is about 8 to 12 inches.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SUBSOILER AND A MIDDLE BUSTER?

While there are variations between models, in general, a middle buster is smaller and lighter than a subsoiler and has slightly different capabilities. A middle buster is commonly used for breaking up compacted dirt, moving it to the side, and creating a furrow, whereas a subsoiler is better suited for breaking up hard soil without creating much displacement.

CAN YOU USE A MIDDLE BUSTER TO DIG A TRENCH?

In a word, yes! While your ability to use your middle buster for trenching depends heavily on how hard your soil is and how large a trench you need, in general, a middle buster can create small trenches of 8 to 12 inches deep with relatively straight sides.

HOW IS A MIDDLE BUSTER USED?

Middle busters can be used for a range of garden and home tasks - everything from creating garden furrows to digging small trenches to harvesting potatoes, and more! Let’s take a look at how homeowners can check off their to-do list with the assistance of a middle buster.

1. Matching the Middle Buster with a Tractor

For John Deere tractor owners in the market for a middle buster, Frontier offers great implements that are compatible with Category 1, 3-point hitches. As a note, Frontier middle busters perform best when powered by a tractor with a horsepower range between 24 and 45.

2. Dig a Furrow

Once the tillage process has been completed, operators can use their middle buster to dig a furrow up to 12 inches deep. After the furrow is dug, vegetables can be planted at a recommended depth of about 4 inches into the soil. Finally, cover the vegetable with soil and use a row hipper to build up the hills as the stems grow.

3. Run the Middle Buster Through the Soil

When the vegetables are ready to be harvested, operators should run their middle buster through the soil. Doing this will allow any root vegetables that were planted to pop right up to the surface with ease.

For more information regarding John Deere lawn and garden equipment and attachments, contact your local John Deere dealer.

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