Tillage

Tillage refers to the different physical (mechanical) manipulations of the soil that change its structure, strength or position in order to improve or provide the necessary soil conditions favourable to the growth of crops. It is one of the oldest arts associated with farming. Minimum tillage systems, often entailing herbicide use, avoid erosion and maintain soil structure. Tillage improves the productiveness of soil because it causes a breaking down of the large soil clods into smaller ones, which increases the surface area from which plant roots obtain their food. However, some plants do not require ploughing or tillage for their growth. In Bangladesh both mechanical and manual tillers are being used. sugarcane farmers are mainly using tractors. Rich farmers are also using tractors and other power tillers for cultivation. However, unmechanised tillage is a common practise here. [Md Didar-Ul-Alam]