- tilth
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/tilth/, n.1. the act or operation of tilling land; tillage.2. the state of being tilled or under cultivation.3. the physical condition of soil in relation to plant growth.4. land that is tilled or cultivated.[bef. 1000; ME, OE. See TILL2, -TH1]
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Physical condition of soil, especially in relation to its suitability for planting or growing a crop.Factors that determine tilth include the formation and stability of aggregated soil particles, moisture content, degree of aeration, rate of water infiltration, and drainage. The tilth of a soil can change rapidly, depending on environmental factors such as changes in moisture. The objective of tillage (mechanical manipulation of the soil) is to improve tilth, thereby increasing crop production; in the long term, however, conventional tillage, especially plowing, often has the opposite effect, causing the soil to break down and become compacted.* * *
Universalium. 2010.