Abstract Important effects of the action of tined implements are sorting and mixing. In laboratory experiments both qualitative and quantitative aspects were determined. Sorting was characterized by degree and speed, mixing by speed after a certain number of cultivations, and differences were expressed by the Mean Deviation. For different ratios of the diameters of the granules sorting was observed in front of the tine and sorting + mixing behind the tine. The Critical Ratio of Entrance influenced the process, especially in front of the time where a tendency toward a laminar flow was observed. Behind the tine flow was more turbulent. Furthermore sorting and mixing were influenced by the shape, angle, size, and travelling speed of the time, and the size ratio, specific gravity, moisture content, etc., of the granules. Wider, thrusting tines at low speeds, and great differences in diameter, specific gravity and a low moisture content of the granules caused quick sorting. Quick sorting was often but not always attended by slow mixing. Furthermore quick sorting was not necessarily attended by a high degree of sorting. Mixing of homogeneous material was simulated by calculation.