Tillage

Tillage is the physical manipulation of the upper layer of soil, forming a fundamental practice in agriculture for preparing a seedbed. Mechanically, it involves the turning, breaking up, or mixing of soil material to achieve several goals, including the incorporation of residues and organic matter, which improves soil structure and nutrient cycling. Effective tillage helps to control undesirable vegetation by uprooting weeds and modifying the soil profile to increase porosity and aeration, thereby facilitating root growth and water infiltration. Techniques vary greatly, ranging from superficial surface disturbing methods to deep plowing, and the practice fundamentally alters the soil's physical architecture in preparation for crop establishment.