Why weed lying down?
In diversified market gardening, hand weeding along the row is often unavoidable, especially on direct-sown crops such as carrots, onions or beetroot. On your knees or bent over, it is one of the hardest jobs of the season.
Lying face down on a bed that moves forward on its own above the bed of crops, your hands are right at plant level while your back and knees rest. Based on the assumptions in our benefits study, you weed 30 to 40% faster than on foot.
A bed that moves at your pace
On both the Straddler and the Broco'lit, working speed is regulated and adjustable from 10 to 700 m/h. The machine moves forward by itself while you work: no more getting up to move anything.
- Romanesco Straddler: work beds swapped without tools, side extensions for up to 4 people, camera guidance along the row.
- Broco'lit: work bed for 1 or 2 people, ground clearance adjustable up to 68 cm, travels at 15 km/h between plots.
All year round, not just for weeding
The same bed is also used for planting and harvesting, so the machine works all season long and pays for itself faster. In France, the Straddler and the Broco'lit qualify for several investment grants, including MSA funding for equipment that reduces physical strain. Outside France, similar local schemes probably exist: get in touch and we will help you look.
Find out more
Updated on 29 October 2026 by Basile Gaulier, co-founder of Romanesco