The article describes experimental studies to study the effect of the design of a combined small-sized tillage unit with an active needle roller and a segment cutter developed at the Mari State University, based on the Neva MB ‒ B 6.0 Compact motorblock. When developing a combined tillage unit, the technical parameters of the tool and the conditions for performing operations such as crushing soil blocks, loosening the soil to a certain depth, leveling the microrelief of the surface layer, pruning plant residues and mixing them with the ground, rolling the topsoil were taken into account. As a result of statistical processing of experimental data, a mathematical dependence of the lumpiness of the soil surface on the main independent factors of the tillage process was obtained, which makes it possible to determine the rational technological modes of operation of the unit. Introduction. A key role in providing favorable conditions for the growth and development of agricultural crops is played by high-quality field work. This means that it is necessary to ensure compliance with the quality parameters and deadlines for the fulfillment of agrotechnical requirements in small subsidiary and farms, where work is carried out under limited and cramped conditions with the use of tillers. Materials and methods. The use of a trailed active needle roller can significantly speed up the process of soil preparation. The pilot study included the study of the influence of three main factors on soil crumbling: the depth of processing, the load on the press roller and the speed of the roller rotor. The results of the study make it possible to optimize the use of rollers in soil cultivation and increase its crumbling. This, in turn, can lead to improved soil quality and increased crop yields. Research results. The experimental research program included several stages and consisted of preliminary one-factor and full three-factor experiments. In the course of the combined tillage, the characteristic dependences of soil lumpiness indicators on indicators of tillage depth, engine speed and load of the rolling roller were determined. Based on the data obtained, a mathematical dependence of the degree of soil crumbling on various factors was derived. Conclusion. The test results show that at the working depth Х1=18cm, the rotation frequency of the roller rotor Х2=270 rpm, the load of the press roller Х3=30 N, the operation of the active needle roller is the most efficient, since with these parameters the maximum degree of soil crumbling is achieved.