What is the Difference Between a Cultivator and a Rotavator?

Ans.

A cultivator is used mainly for soil loosening and weed control, while a rotavator is used for complete soil pulverisation and seedbed preparation. Here’s a detailed comparison:

• Purpose & Function

Cultivator: Breaks up soil crust, removes weeds, and aerates soil without completely turning it over. Ideal for secondary tillage.

Rotavator: Uses rotating blades to crush, cut, and mix soil deeply. Ideal for primary tillage and making a fine seedbed in one pass.

• Working Mechanism

Cultivator: Has tines that dig into the soil in rows.

Rotavator: Has rotating blades or C, J, L-shaped tines mounted on a rotating shaft.

• Power Requirement

Cultivator: Requires less power (suitable for 20–35 HP tractors).

Rotavator: Requires more power (usually 35+ HP tractors, depending on width and soil type).

• Soil Preparation Quality

Cultivator: Good for shallow soil stirring, but not suitable for finely tilled seedbeds.

Rotavator: Produces fine, even soil perfect for sowing seeds directly.

• Use Cases

Cultivator: Weed control between crop rows, Loosening topsoil before irrigation. Used in orchards and row crops

Rotavator: Land preparation before sowing, mixing stubble or manure into the soil. Suitable for both dry and wet soils

• Cost & Maintenance

Cultivator: Cheaper and easier to maintain.

Rotavator: More expensive compared to a cultivator, with higher wear & tear.

   26-Jun-2025 |   Answer by: Tractor Gyan