PLOUGHS AND PLOUGHING

Abstract

The plough is the vital, part of the ryot's equipment. Ploughing is the first and foremost operation in the preparation of the soil to develop tilth. This is just as true to-day as it ever was, despite the introduction of many other forms of tillage implements. The productiveness of the soil depends upon its physical condition, its humus content, the amount and availability of water and the amount of available plant food. The ground must be ploughed to break up and pulverise the soil. Pulverising is necessary to aerate the soil and make available the plant food which envelopes each soil particle. The soil must be aerated in order that it may be thoroughly oxidised, a condition necessary to the healthy maintenance of soil bacteria. Ploughing is necessary to cover surface trash or manure and mix it with the soil so that it will decay and maintain the stock of humus and plant food. The ground must be ploughed for the purpose also of increasing the ability of the soil to absorb moisture.