37 Essential Small Farming Tools for Market Gardens And Growers

Looking for the right small farming tools to transform a market garden into a productive and sustainable operation? Jean-Martin Fortier, the renowned Canadian farmer, educator, and author, has curated a list of essential equipment that can make all the difference.

After more than a decade running successful market gardens and mentoring thousands of farmers through the Market Gardener Institute, Fortier has identified 30 essential small farming tools that every regenerative farmer and market gardener should consider.

His expertise, documented in his bestselling book “The Market Gardener,” has influenced sustainable farming practices worldwide, helping farmers maximize productivity on small plots without relying on expensive machinery or synthetic inputs.

This carefully curated list represents Fortier’s real-world experience and practical wisdom. He has evaluated each tool based on efficiency, durability, ergonomics, and value for small-scale farmers focused on soil health and sustainability.

Whether just starting out or looking to upgrade an existing operation, this guide based on Fortier’s recommendations will help farmers make informed decisions about which small farming tools to invest in first and how to build effective systems around them.

Soil Management Tools

The foundation of any regenerative farm is healthy soil. These small farming tools help build and maintain soil structure while minimizing disturbance.

1. Broadfork (La Grelinette)

The broadfork is perhaps the most iconic tool in regenerative agriculture. This two-handled fork allows farmers to deeply aerate soil without inverting it, preserving soil structure and biology.

Why it’s essential: Unlike rototillers that destroy soil structure, the broadfork creates vertical channels for air, water, and root penetration while maintaining horizontal soil layers.

Best practices:

• Use after initial bed formation and before each major planting
• Work backwards to avoid stepping on loosened soil
• Choose the right width for your bed system (30″ is standard)
• Look for models with replaceable tines and comfortable handles

Fortier has long championed the broadfork as the cornerstone tool for building soil health without disruption. At his farm, Les Jardins de la Grelinette in Quebec, he demonstrated how this simple tool could transform compacted soil into productive growing beds while preserving the delicate soil food web.

Several manufacturers now make quality broadforks, with Meadow Creature and Valley Oak offering particularly durable options.

“The broadfork completely transformed our compacted clay soil over two seasons. We now have friable, well-draining beds that previously seemed impossible.” – Elena, Sunrise Market Garden

2. Bed Preparation Rake (30-inch)

A sturdy, wide rake designed specifically for forming and maintaining planting beds is crucial for consistent results.

Why it’s essential: Creates level planting surfaces, removes stones and debris, and provides the final touch before seeding or transplanting.

Best practices:

• Choose a rake width that matches your bed system
• Look for durable construction with replaceable tines
• Use for final bed preparation after broadforking
• Maintain a consistent method for creating uniform beds

Fortier recommends the Growers & Co. model for its durability and perfect width for standard market garden beds. His experience with hundreds of different rakes over the years led him to collaborate with tool manufacturers to design rakes specifically suited for the needs of small-scale market gardeners.

3. Power Harrow for BCS

For larger operations, a power harrow attachment for a two-wheel tractor offers efficient bed preparation while preserving soil structure.

Why it’s essential: Unlike rotary tillers, power harrows work only the top few inches horizontally, preserving soil layers while creating perfect seedbeds.

Best practices:

• Use at slow speeds for best results
• Adjust depth settings properly (typically 2-3″)
• Maintain sharp blades for efficiency
• Consider for initial bed formation and renovation

Fortier’s La Ferme des Quatre-Temps demonstration farm in Quebec showcases how power harrows can be integrated into a regenerative system. This 8-acre commercial farm produces abundant crops while training the next generation of market gardeners in tool use and systems thinking.

4. Tilther/Bed Roller Combo

This small, handheld tool powered by a cordless drill creates a fine seedbed in the top inch of soil, ideal for direct seeding.

Why it’s essential: Creates the perfect environment for small seeds without disturbing deeper soil layers or bringing weed seeds to the surface.

Best practices:

• Use only on beds that have already been broadforked
• Work when soil is at appropriate moisture level
• Combine with bed roller for excellent seed-to-soil contact
• Maintain clean, sharp tines

Originally conceptualized by Eliot Coleman and promoted by Fortier in his Market Gardener Masterclass, this tool has become standard equipment for small farms focusing on direct-seeded crops.

![Person using a broadfork to aerate soil in a market garden bed][image: broadfork in use]

Bed Preparation Equipment

Properly prepared beds are crucial for successful crops. These small farming tools help create the perfect growing environment.

5. Bed Former

For farms using permanent bed systems, a dedicated bed former attachment for a two-wheel tractor can save countless hours of manual work.

Why it’s essential: Creates consistent, properly shaped beds that improve drainage, soil warming, and enable the use of standardized tools.

Best practices:

• Establish your ideal bed dimensions before purchasing
• Use when soil is at appropriate moisture
• Maintain consistent pathways between beds
• Consider adding compost before forming beds

6. Bed Roller/Crimper

This simple tool compacts the soil surface slightly to improve seed-to-soil contact and can also be used to terminate cover crops.

Why it’s essential: Ensures uniform germination by eliminating air pockets around seeds and creating a firm, level planting surface.

Best practices:

• Use after final raking but before seeding
• Choose weight appropriate to your soil type
• Consider models that attach to other tools for efficiency
• Use for cover crop management in no-till systems

7. Black Silage Tarps

Large, durable tarps have become essential small farming tools for bed preparation in regenerative systems.

Why it’s essential: Uses solar heat to terminate weeds and cover crops, accelerates plant decomposition, and preserves soil moisture.

Best practices:

• Apply tarps 3-4 weeks before planting
• Ensure edges are well-secured
• Consider using sandbags instead of stakes for securing
• Store properly to extend lifespan
• Use 6 mil or thicker for durability

Fortier popularized the use of silage tarps in market gardens through his books and workshops. At his own farms, he demonstrated how these simple covers could dramatically reduce weed pressure while improving soil biology. Many companies now offer specialized options based on his specifications. Farmer’s Friend makes durable, UV-treated tarps specifically sized for standard bed widths that Fortier recommends.

“Silage tarps revolutionized our weed management. We’ve cut our weeding time by 60% by tarping beds for 3 weeks before planting.” – Marcus, Green Hill Farm

Seeding and Planting Tools

Efficient seeding systems save time and improve crop uniformity. These small farming tools help place seeds precisely where they need to go.

8. Jang Seeder (JP5 model)

This precision seeder is widely considered the gold standard for direct seeding in market gardens.

Why it’s essential: Provides unmatched precision for seed spacing, depth control, and seed use efficiency, resulting in uniform crops and reduced thinning.

Best practices:

• Invest in multiple seed rollers for different crops
• Practice on flat surfaces before field use
• Clean thoroughly after each use
• Test seed rates before large plantings
• Keep owners manual accessible

In his Market Gardener Masterclass, Fortier demonstrates proper techniques for Jang seeder calibration and maintenance, teaching students how to achieve the perfect plant spacing for over 40 different crops. His detailed crop planning spreadsheets specify exact roller types and settings for each crop variety.

9. Pinpoint Seeder (6-row version)

This multi-row seeder allows for precise planting of baby greens and small-seeded crops.

Why it’s essential: Enables consistent, efficient seeding of multiple rows simultaneously, perfect for salad mixes and high-density plantings.

Best practices:

• Prepare ultra-smooth seedbeds before use
• Calibrate for each seed type
• Use for crops harvested at baby stage
• Consider soil conditions before seeding

Originally designed by Eliot Coleman and refined by Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Fortier adopted this tool early in his career at Les Jardins de la Grelinette. He has since helped countless farmers integrate it into their operations through his workshops and online courses.

10. Seedling Trays and Propagation Equipment

Quality seedling trays in various cell sizes support healthy transplant production.

Why it’s essential: Strong transplants lead to better crop establishment and earlier harvests.

Best practices:

• Use 128-cell trays for most crops
• Use 72-cell for longer-term transplants
• Invest in quality trays that last multiple seasons
• Develop a systematic approach to transplant production
• Consider soil blockers as an alternative

Fortier’s nursery production systems emphasize quality over quantity. In his farm operations, he has refined efficient processes for seeding, managing, and hardening off tens of thousands of transplants annually with minimal labor.

11. Paper Pot Transplanter

For farms scaling up, a paper pot transplanter can revolutionize the planting process.

Why it’s essential: Allows one person to transplant thousands of seedlings per hour while maintaining consistent spacing.

Best practices:

• Plan crop spacing around available chain options
• Prepare beds to be very level before transplanting
• Consider crop rotation when choosing paper pot spacing
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for filling trays

Fortier has documented how this Japanese-designed tool can save hundreds of hours of labor each season while improving transplant survival rates and crop uniformity.

![Person using a Jang precision seeder to plant directly in a garden bed][image: precision seeder]

Weed Management Solutions

Weed control is often the biggest challenge for small farms. These small farming tools make the job more efficient.

12. Flex Tine Weeder

This gentle but effective tool targets thread-stage weeds before they become problematic.

Why it’s essential: Allows for quick weeding of large areas, dramatically reducing hand weeding time when used at the right stage.

Best practices:

• Use when weeds are at thread stage
• Time passes for 3-5 days after rain
• Adjust tine tension appropriately for crop stage
• Make multiple passes over the season

Fortier recommends the Two Bad Cats model, noting that timing is crucial for success with this tool. Through his teaching, he emphasizes weeding at the white thread stage of weed development, when control requires minimal effort.

13. Stirrup Hoes (Various Sizes)

These oscillating hoes cut weeds just below the soil surface with minimal soil disturbance.

Why it’s essential: Provides precise control for weeding between plants and in tight spaces.

Best practices:

• Keep blades sharp for best performance
• Use with a shallow, skimming motion
• Choose appropriate sizes for different crops
• Use when soil is moderately dry

Through his workshops and online courses, Fortier has taught proper hoe technique to thousands of farmers. His system uses hoes of different sizes for different crop layouts, optimizing efficiency while minimizing soil disturbance.

14. Wheel Hoe with Attachments

A wheel hoe combines human power with mechanical advantage for efficient cultivation.

Why it’s essential: Allows one person to quickly weed entire beds with minimal effort compared to hand tools.

Best practices:

• Invest in multiple attachments (stirrup blade, furrower, etc.)
• Use when weeds are small
• Maintain proper blade sharpness
• Develop a rhythm for efficient use

At his demonstration farms, Fortier has refined systems where different crew members are assigned specific tools based on crop type and growth stage, creating efficient weeding workflows that minimize labor costs.

15. Flame Weeder

Propane-powered flame weeders provide non-chemical weed management for pre-emergent crops.

Why it’s essential: Creates a stale seedbed by eliminating the first flush of weeds before crop emergence, especially for slow-germinating crops.

Best practices:

• Use only on moist soil with no dry debris
• Time applications just before crop emergence
• Have proper safety equipment nearby
• Choose appropriate flame size for your beds

Fortier’s systematic approach to weed management includes flame weeding as one critical component of a multi-faceted strategy. By combining this with tarping, stale seedbeds, and precise timing, his farms dramatically reduce hand weeding requirements.

16. Biodegradable Mulch Film

For certain crops, biodegradable mulch film provides excellent weed suppression while building soil heat.

Why it’s essential: Prevents weeds, conserves moisture, and increases soil temperature for heat-loving crops.

Best practices:

• Install with proper equipment for good soil contact
• Choose appropriate thickness for crop duration
• Ensure edges are well-secured
• Select truly biodegradable products

“Our wheel hoe with multiple attachments is used almost daily. For $300, it’s been the best investment for keeping weeds under control.” – Jamie, River Bottom Farm

Essential Machinery

While hand tools are important, appropriate machinery can dramatically increase efficiency on small farms.

17. BCS Two-Wheel Tractor

This versatile walk-behind tractor serves as a power unit for numerous attachments.

Why it’s essential: Provides appropriate-scale mechanization for small farms without the cost and soil compaction of larger tractors.

Best practices:

• Choose appropriate horsepower for your scale (749cc is versatile)
• Invest in quality attachments over time
• Maintain properly with scheduled oil changes
• Consider ergonomic handles for comfort

Fortier recommends the BCS 853 model for commercial market gardens. His comprehensive training materials include maintenance schedules, attachment selection guides, and operational techniques for maximizing efficiency with these Italian-made machines.

18. Flail Mower Attachment

This attachment for two-wheel tractors efficiently manages cover crops and crop residues.

Why it’s essential: Chops plant material finely for quicker decomposition, essential for no-till and reduced-till systems.

Best practices:

• Maintain sharp blades for clean cutting
• Adjust height appropriately for the task
• Use at appropriate speed for thorough chopping
• Consider for breaking down crop residues before tarping

Fortier’s farm systems integrate cover crops and crop residue management into crop planning, using the flail mower to accelerate organic matter decomposition without disturbing soil structure.

19. Quick-Attach System

An efficient system for changing implements on two-wheel tractors saves time and reduces frustration.

Why it’s essential: Allows for quick transitions between tasks without tools or complicated procedures.

Best practices:

• Invest in compatible attachments
• Keep connection points clean and lubricated
• Store attachments organized for quick access
• Consider ergonomics when designing your system

![BCS two-wheel tractor with flail mower attachment operating in a market garden][image: two-wheel tractor]

Crop Protection Systems

Protecting crops from weather extremes and pests is crucial for consistent production.

20. Caterpillar Tunnels/Hoop Houses

These season-extension structures provide environmental control and crop protection.

Why it’s essential: Extends growing seasons, protects from extreme weather, and creates microclimates for crop diversification.

Best practices:

• Choose appropriate size for your beds
• Consider movable designs for crop rotation
• Invest in quality materials for longevity
• Develop systems for ventilation management
• Plan for water management around structures

Fortier’s farm designs typically include a mix of caterpillar tunnels, permanent hoop houses, and open field production. His comprehensive approach to season extension has allowed his Quebec farms to produce crops nearly year-round despite the harsh northern climate.

21. Floating Row Covers

Lightweight fabric covers protect crops from insects and light frost while allowing light, air, and water penetration.

Why it’s essential: Provides physical barriers against pests without chemicals while moderating temperatures.

Best practices:

• Select appropriate weight for your purpose
• Secure edges well to prevent pest entry
• Remove during flowering for pollinator access
• Store properly when not in use to extend lifespan

Fortier’s pest management strategy relies heavily on physical barriers rather than organic pesticides. His systematic approach to covering certain crops immediately after planting has dramatically reduced pest pressure at his farms.

22. Insect Netting

Finer mesh netting specifically designed to exclude insects while having minimal impact on temperature.

Why it’s essential: Provides excellent protection from specific pests like flea beetles and cabbage moths without the heat buildup of row covers.

Best practices:

• Choose mesh size appropriate to target pests
• Use hoops or supports to prevent contact with plants
• Secure edges completely
• Consider access systems for management and harvest

Through his teaching, Fortier has detailed specific mesh sizes needed for different pest insects, helping farmers select the right protection for each crop.

23. Sandbags/Securing System

An efficient system for securing row covers and netting prevents frustration and crop damage.

Why it’s essential: Properly secured covers stay in place during wind and weather events, providing consistent protection.

Best practices:

• Use UV-resistant materials for longevity
• Develop a systematic approach for quick deployment
• Consider alternatives to soil-filled bags (clips, pins, etc.)
• Store organized for quick access

Irrigation Equipment

Proper irrigation is critical for consistent yields and crop quality.

24. Drip Irrigation System

Water-efficient drip lines deliver moisture directly to the crop root zone.

Why it’s essential: Maximizes water efficiency, reduces disease pressure, and allows for precise fertigation when needed.

Best practices:

• Use header pipes sized appropriately for your system
• Install filters to prevent clogging
• Consider pressure regulators for consistent performance
• Develop zones for separate crop water needs
• Use quality components for reliability

Fortier’s farms utilize zoned irrigation systems that allow precise water management for different crop types. His irrigation designs emphasize simplicity, serviceability, and water conservation.

25. XL Wobblers/Overhead Sprinklers

Overhead irrigation provides options for germination, cooling, and broad coverage.

Why it’s essential: Certain crops and situations require overhead irrigation, especially for germination and establishment.

Best practices:

• Use appropriately sized piping for good pressure
• Calculate precipitation rates for accurate scheduling
• Consider windy conditions when designing placement
• Use for cooling crops during heat waves

Fortier’s integrated water management systems include overhead irrigation for specific purposes while emphasizing drip as the primary delivery method.

26. Nan Micro-Sprinklers

These specialized micro-sprinklers provide gentle watering for delicate crops and seedlings.

Why it’s essential: Delivers water with minimal impact on soil structure or delicate plants.

Best practices:

• Install on risers for appropriate coverage
• Use in protected environments for best control
• Consider for propagation areas and nursery spaces
• Maintain clean filters to prevent clogging

27. Water Distribution System

A well-designed water delivery system saves time and ensures consistent availability.

Why it’s essential: Efficient water management is fundamental to successful market gardening.

Best practices:

• Install main lines along primary pathways
• Use quick-connect fittings for flexibility
• Consider gravity systems where possible
• Develop winter protection protocols in cold regions

![Drip irrigation system installed in market garden beds with header pipe and lateral lines][image: drip irrigation]

Harvesting Tools

Efficient harvesting tools improve crop quality and reduce labor costs.

28. Opinel No. 10 Knife

This folding knife with a stainless steel blade is perfect for harvesting many crops.

Why it’s essential: The right harvest knife combines sharpness, durability, and safety for efficient harvesting.

Best practices:

• Keep blades extremely sharp
• Clean and sanitize regularly
• Establish knife safety protocols
• Have multiples for harvest crews

Fortier’s favorite harvest knife, the Opinel #10, has become a standard tool on many small farms due to his recommendation. He emphasizes proper knife use and maintenance as essential skills for any market gardener.

29. Felco Pruning Shears

Quality pruning shears are essential for clean cuts on stems and larger produce.

Why it’s essential: Delivers clean cuts that improve crop quality and shelf life.

Best practices:

• Maintain clean, sharp blades
• Choose ergonomic designs for comfort
• Clean after each harvest day
• Have replacement parts available

Fortier recommends the Felco 310 model, noting that investing in quality tools that last for decades is more economical than repeatedly purchasing cheaper options.

30. Quick-Cut Greens Harvester

This specialized small farming tool dramatically speeds harvesting of salad greens and similar crops.

Why it’s essential: Can increase harvesting efficiency by 5-10 times compared to knife harvesting for certain crops.

Best practices:

• Use with appropriately maintained battery
• Clean thoroughly after each use
• Practice technique before commercial harvests
• Consider scaled-down versions for smaller operations

Fortier was an early adopter of this tool in North America, helping popularize it through his demonstration farms and teaching. His techniques for bed preparation, seeding density, and harvesting have been optimized specifically for use with the Quick Cut Harvester.

31. Harvest Cart/Wagon

A purpose-built cart for moving harvested crops from field to wash station improves efficiency and reduces damage.

Why it’s essential: Supports ergonomic harvesting workflows and protects crop quality.

Best practices:

• Choose appropriate size for your scale
• Consider all-terrain wheels for field conditions
• Design height for comfortable harvesting
• Include shade covering for sensitive crops

Fortier recommends the Model M26 from Carts Vermont, which he has used extensively at his farms. His systems emphasize harvesting directly into final containers whenever possible to reduce handling and potential crop damage.

32. Harvest Bins/Totes

Standardized containers for harvested crops maintain quality and streamline handling.

Why it’s essential: Proper containers prevent damage, maintain temperature, and facilitate efficient washing and packing.

Best practices:

• Standardize on one or two sizes for efficiency
• Choose stackable designs for storage
• Consider vented options for certain crops
• Develop cleaning and sanitizing protocols

Fortier’s farms utilize a standardized bin system for all crops, with specific harvest containers designated for different crop types. This systematic approach minimizes handling and streamlines post-harvest processing.

“Our Quick-Cut harvester paid for itself in the first month. We now harvest our salad mix in about 20% of the time it took with knives.” – Sarah, Mountain View Organics

Support and Maintenance Equipment

These additional small farming tools support the overall operation of the farm.

33. Tool Sharpener

A dedicated sharpening system keeps cutting tools in optimal condition.

Why it’s essential: Sharp tools increase efficiency, reduce effort, and improve crop quality.

Best practices:

• Learn proper sharpening techniques
• Establish regular maintenance schedules
• Consider both field sharpening and shop systems
• Have replacement blades for critical tools

Fortier recommends the Work Sharp MK2 high-speed electric knife sharpener, which he uses daily at his farms to maintain peak tool performance.

34. Backpack Sprayer

A quality sprayer allows precise application of organic inputs and foliar feeds.

Why it’s essential: Enables targeted application of biological controls, compost teas, and organic sprays.

Best practices:

• Invest in quality components for durability
• Use dedicated sprayers for different materials
• Maintain consistent pressure with quality pumps
• Clean thoroughly after each use

After testing dozens of models, Fortier recommends the Chapin 24-Volt model for its reliability, consistent pressure, and ease of use.

35. Cold Storage System

Proper post-harvest cooling dramatically extends crop shelf life and quality.

Why it’s essential: Removing field heat quickly is one of the most important factors in crop quality and shelf life.

Best practices:

• Size appropriately for your production volume
• Maintain consistent temperatures
• Consider humidity control for different crops
• Develop energy-efficient designs
• Organize for FIFO (first in, first out) access

Fortier has pioneered affordable cold storage solutions for small farms, including the use of CoolBot controllers to create walk-in coolers at a fraction of the cost of commercial refrigeration systems.

36. Rain Gear with Knee Pads

Quality rain gear allows work to continue in inclement weather.

Why it’s essential: Market gardens require consistent attention regardless of weather.

Best practices:

• Invest in durable, breathable materials
• Consider bib-style pants with built-in knee protection
• Have extras available for workers
• Include appropriate footwear in your system

Fortier emphasizes the importance of proper work clothing as essential “tools” for any farm. His recommendation of Growers & Co. rain gear and Xtratuf boots stems from years of testing in demanding conditions.

37. Crop Planning Software

Digital tools help manage complex planning and record-keeping.

Why it’s essential: Efficient planning and record-keeping are fundamental to consistent production and profitability.

Best practices:

• Choose software appropriate to your operation’s scale
• Commit to consistent data entry
• Use for succession planning and rotation management
• Integrate with financial tracking when possible

Through the Market Gardener Institute, Fortier has helped develop specialized crop planning tools designed specifically for small-scale market gardens. His detailed crop planning systems have been refined through years of practical application.

![Organized tool storage area on a small regenerative farm with tools properly hung and labeled][image: tool organization]

Building Efficient Systems

Having the right small farming tools is just the beginning. Creating systems that integrate these tools effectively is what separates successful market gardens from struggling ones.

The Bed Preparation System

An efficient bed preparation system combines several tools in sequence:

1. Initial soil opening with broadfork or power harrow
2. Compost application with appropriate spreading tools
3. Surface preparation with bed rake or tilther
4. Bed forming and rolling for seeding surface
5. Pre-irrigation for stale seedbed technique (optional)
6. Tarping for weed management (as needed)

Fortier’s systematic approach to bed preparation has been refined through years of experimentation and observation. His standardized procedures for different crop types save time and mental energy during busy seasons.

The Crop Rotation System

Fortier designs tool selections to support crop rotation strategies:

1. Heavy feeders (tomatoes, brassicas) benefit from deep soil preparation
2. Light feeders (roots, greens) need fine seedbeds and precision seeding
3. Soil builders (cover crops, legumes) require appropriate termination tools
4. Quick succession crops benefit from tarping between plantings

His detailed crop planning systems, taught through the Market Gardener Masterclass, show farmers how to align tool investments with crop focus and rotation plans.

The Scaling System

As farms grow, Fortier advises that tool needs will evolve:

0.25 Acre Focus

• Hand tools (broadfork, wheel hoe)
• Manual seeders
• Simple irrigation

0.5-1 Acre Expansion

• Two-wheel tractor with basic attachments
• Quick-Cut harvester
• Improved irrigation systems

1-3 Acre Operation

• Additional tractor attachments
• Specialized harvest equipment
• Expanded protection systems
• Improved post-harvest facilities

Fortier encourages farmers to plan tool acquisitions that grow with their operation rather than purchasing based on future aspirations.

Getting Started on a Budget

Not everyone can acquire all 30+ small farming tools at once. Fortier offers a strategic approach to building a toolkit over time:

Essential Starter Kit (Under $2,000)

1. Quality broadfork
2. 30″ bed preparation rake
3. Wheel hoe with multiple attachments
4. Precision seeder (Earthway or entry-level Jang)
5. Basic irrigation components
6. Hand harvest tools
7. 2-3 tarps for weed management

Next Level Additions (Years 2-3)

1. Two-wheel tractor (new or used)
2. Basic attachments (power harrow or tiller)
3. Quick-Cut harvester
4. Expanded irrigation system
5. Season extension materials

Advanced Systems (Years 3-5)

1. Additional tractor attachments
2. Specialized seeding equipment
3. Cold storage solutions
4. Advanced protection systems
5. Mechanized harvest equipment

“Start with small farming tools that make daily tasks easier, then graduate to equipment that changes your systems completely. Our wheel hoe came first, then the Quick-Cut harvester, and finally our BCS tractor—each one transformed our efficiency.” – Miguel, Abundant Acres Farm

Frequently Asked Questions

What small farming tools should absolute beginners prioritize?

Fortier advises focusing on tools that make daily tasks more efficient: a quality broadfork, wheel hoe with attachments, precision seeder, and basic irrigation. These fundamentals will serve well while gaining experience.

Is a two-wheel tractor worth the investment for a quarter-acre market garden?

For most quarter-acre operations, Fortier believes hand tools are sufficient, and the investment in a two-wheel tractor might be premature. However, if planning to expand beyond a half-acre within 1-2 years, acquiring a used BCS can be worthwhile, especially for those with physical limitations.

How can farmers test small farming tools before purchasing?

Fortier suggests several options:

• Attend farm equipment demonstrations at conferences
• Visit neighboring farms using tools being considered
• Rent equipment through tool libraries where available
• Start with hand-powered versions before mechanized options
• Look for money-back trial periods from supportive suppliers

Do regenerative farms need different small farming tools than conventional market gardens?

Fortier emphasizes that while many tools overlap, regenerative farms typically prioritize:

• Soil-preserving implements (broadforks vs. rotary tillers)
• Cover crop management tools (crimpers, flail mowers)
• Precision weeding tools that minimize soil disturbance
• Season extension for crop diversity
• The specific mix will depend on growing philosophy

How should farmers store and maintain all these small farming tools properly?

Through his courses, Fortier teaches that proper storage and maintenance doubles tool lifespan:

• Create dedicated, organized storage areas
• Keep cutting tools clean and sharp
• Establish end-of-day cleaning routines
• Apply appropriate lubricants regularly
• Store wood handles properly to prevent warping
• Schedule weekly maintenance sessions during busy seasons

Can farmers build some of these small farming tools themselves to save money?

Fortier encourages DIY approaches and has documented how many market gardeners build their own:

• Harvest carts and wash stations
• Quick-Cut harvester (DIY versions)
• Seeders from PVC components
• Bed preparation rakes
• Hoop house structures
• Irrigation systems

Conclusion

Building the right toolkit of small farming tools for a regenerative farm is an ongoing process. Jean-Martin Fortier advises starting with the fundamentals that match scale and growing style, then expanding methodically as skills and business grow.

As the founder of the Market Gardener Institute and author of “The Market Gardener,” which has sold over 180,000 copies worldwide, Fortier has influenced countless farmers with his practical, systematic approach to small-scale agriculture. His farms in Quebec, Les Jardins de la Grelinette and La Ferme des Quatre-Temps, serve as living laboratories where he continues to refine tool selections and farming systems.

His philosophy emphasizes that the best small farming tools are those that actually get used regularly—expensive equipment that sits idle represents wasted capital that could be better deployed elsewhere on the farm.

By strategically investing in the right tools for a specific operation, farmers can build efficient systems that allow them to grow more food with less labor while building soil health for the long term.

The true magic, as Fortier often says in his workshops, happens when small farming tools become an extension of farming philosophy, working together as an integrated system rather than a random collection of implements.

What will your first (or next) tool investment be?

• [farm tools collection]: Diverse collection of essential small farming tools for regenerative farms and market gardens
• [broadfork in use]: Person using a broadfork to aerate soil in a market garden bed
• [precision seeder]: Person using a Jang precision seeder to plant directly in a garden bed
• [two-wheel tractor]: BCS two-wheel tractor with flail mower attachment operating in a market garden
• [drip irrigation]: Drip irrigation system installed in market garden beds with header pipe and lateral lines
• [tool organization]: Organized storage area for small farming tools on a regenerative farm with tools properly hung and labeled