The implement is effective on slightly moist soils. Soil passing under the shields smothers weeds in the crop row. The dust layer that results from brushing delays new weed germinations. For example, in transplanted broccoli, a single pass of the brush hoe provided season-long weed control comparable to standard herbicides without reducing yields. The brush hoe requires two operators.
Wind erosion is possible with aggressive brushing on dry soils.
The initial implement purchase is costly. Advantages The weeder offers excellent in-row weed control. The finger weeder is a light weight tool and can be mid-mounted on a small tractor. Between-row control is poor. Finger weeders should be used in combination with an inter-row cultivator.