Last week I posted this video on making easy raised beds with my broadfork and a triangular hoe:
In the comments, Dr M wrote:
“This link is a search on YouTube for ‘miracle shovel’ in Russian – there are many different ones, check them out. https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=%D1%87%D1%83%D0%B4%D0%BE+%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%BF%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B0″
And so I clicked the link and started watching.
This is the best video I found on the “Russian Miracle Shovel” broadfork modification:
As you can see, the tines break the ground, then the welder re-bar pieces act as a comb to shatter the clods.
Basically, this is a man-powered tiller.
Here’s what appears to be a commercially made Russian Home Shopping Network version of the tool:
On the downside, this style of broadfork doesn’t look like it could handle the really tough conditions I’ve been able to handle with the Meadow Creature.
That said, in sandy or loose soil it would be a time saver as it makes a nice seedbed as you till your way along.
Here’s a thought: what if you added one of these sifter/comb attachements to the Meadow Creature?
It could work. Maybe on the lighter 12″ tine model?
The open holes are there to add the pivoting grill so you wouldn’t have to do anything to the broadfork itself.
I dunno, I’m not an engineer, but I’m sure one of you could figure out how to reinvent one as a “Russian miracle shovel.” It would probably be too heavy, though. Maybe the grill could be made of titanium!
I love tools which don’t require gasoline or expensive parts. The broadfork is already head and shoulders above digging with a spading fork. The “Russian miracle shovel” style of sifting broadfork would probably work well as a second pass after the Meadow Creature did the really hard work.
A Promotional Raffle
Finally for today, Jason of Rebel Gardens is doing a raffle-style giveaway and let me know about it.
“Three lucky winners will win a copy of the popular DVD Grow Your Own Groceries and a HUGE selection of Rebel Gardens seeds. Total value of almost $150 each!”
That’s Marjory’s film he’s sharing, along with his seeds – no purchase required.
Have fun.