Soil Preparation

Rotavating

PlotWeed

StripsPuddle

TrenchOverturnNarrow bedsHarrowing

ClodsFlood

Words to know:StubblesMoldboardAerateDebriasSeedling emergenceStrip tillCoulterDitchSeedlingLeveling the field

The main purpose of land preparation is to have the soil in optimum physical condition for growing crops. Plowing and tilling of land is done to predetermined levels that allow plants to develop a good root system. Soil cultivation or digging may be hard work but, if taken slowly, it need not be back-breaking.

All bare soil is suitable for cultivating (or digging). However, digging around plants is best avoided as it damages roots and so can be harmful.

Digging is called 'primary cultivation' (and could also be carried out by a mechanical rotavator).

Single digging: Turning over the soil to a spade’s (or fork’s) depth is called single digging

Double digging: This involves inverting a second, deeper layer of soil. This may be hard work but it is perfect for creating new borders and deepening shallow topsoil.

Where digging is not practical, consider sowing and planting into undug soil. Firstly, remove the weeds either by hand, with a flamegun or with weedkiller (containing glyphosate). Loosen the soil, if necessary, with a fork or hoe.

Tillage is the practice of plowing soil to prepare for planting or for nutrient incorporation or for pest control. Tillage varies in intensity from conventional to no-till. It may improve productivity by warming the soil, incorporating fertilizer and controlling weeds, but also renders soil more prone to erosion, triggers the decomposition of organic matter releasing CO2, and reduces the abundance and diversity of soil organisms.

Creation of a seedbed or root bed Control of weeds or the removal of unwanted crop plants Incorporation of plant residues into the soil profile

Conventional tillage systemsbenefits:

Incorporation of fertilizers and/or soil-applied pesticides Establishment of specific soil surface configurations for planting, irrigating, drainage, and/or harvesting operations