What is tillage?

Tillage refers to the agricultural practice of preparing soil for planting by mechanically agitating it. This process involves turning, mixing, and aerating the soil, which can enhance soil structure and fertility, improve root penetration for crops, and help manage weeds and residue from previous crops. Tillage also facilitates the incorporation of organic matter and fertilizers into the soil, promoting better crop growth due to improved nutrient availability.

In contrast to this, methods like planting crops without soil disturbance focus on conservation practices that aim to reduce soil erosion and maintain soil health rather than preparing the soil through mechanical means. The processes involving fertilizers or weed management refer specifically to nutrient application and weed control strategies, respectively, and do not encompass the broader concept of soil preparation that tillage embodies.