Preparation of Soil
Soil preparation is the foundational step in crop production. It involves loosening and turning soil to allow roots to grow deep and access necessary nutrients. The loosened soil promotes the growth of beneficial organisms like earthworms and microbes which further aerate and enrich the soil, ensuring that nutrients from decomposed matter are available to plants. This process is vital as only the top few centimeters of soil supports plant growth. By turning the soil, nutrient-rich layers come to the surface, making them accessible to crops.
Importance of Tilling or Ploughing
Tilling, also known as ploughing, helps mix organic matter into the soil and prepares it for sowing seeds. Traditional wooden or modern iron ploughs are employed for this task, while specific tools are used to break up soil clumps and level the field, beneficial for irrigation and sowing. The addition of manure before tilling enhances the soil's nutrient content.
Agricultural Implements
Before sowing, tools like ploughs, hoes, and cultivators are crucial. Farmers often use ploughs pulled by animals or tractors, while hoes help in weed removal and soil aeration. In contemporary farming, seed drills are popular for their efficiency in sowing seeds at consistent depths.
This section outlines not just the techniques used for soil preparation but also highlights the symbiotic relationship between healthy soil and crop yield, pivotal for supporting food production.