Definition of Tertiary Tillage
Tertiary tillage is a specific type of tillage that occurs after planting and is primarily used during the different stages of crop growth, such as seeding, management, or harvesting. It involves the cultivation of crop rows to disrupt the soil and create favorable conditions for crop growth and management.
Key Facts
- Definition: Tertiary tillage refers to the cultivation of crop rows that takes place after planting.
- Usage in organic farming: Tertiary tillage is more widely used in organic farming compared to conventional farming systems.
- Purpose: The main purpose of tertiary tillage is to disrupt the soil during the different stages of crop growth, such as seeding, management, or harvesting.
- Soil disruption: Tertiary tillage involves manipulating the soil to create grooves or disturbances that facilitate crop growth and management.
- Equipment: Various types of equipment can be used for tertiary tillage, including field cultivators, harrows, tandem or off-set disks, and packers.
- Selective location: Tertiary tillage is usually selective in terms of location, focusing on specific areas where soil disruption is needed.
- Not always utilized: Tertiary tillage is not always utilized, and its use depends on the specific needs of the soil and crop.
Purpose of Tertiary Tillage
The main purpose of tertiary tillage is to manipulate the soil structure and create grooves or disturbances that facilitate crop growth and management. This type of tillage is often used to control weeds, incorporate fertilizers and herbicides, and improve soil aeration and water infiltration. Additionally, tertiary tillage can help to break up compacted soil layers and promote root development.
Usage of Tertiary Tillage in Organic Farming
Tertiary tillage is more widely used in organic farming systems compared to conventional farming systems. In organic farming, the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides is prohibited, making tertiary tillage an essential practice for weed control and soil management. By disrupting the soil and creating an unfavorable environment for weed growth, tertiary tillage helps to reduce weed pressure and promote crop health.
Equipment Used for Tertiary Tillage
Various types of equipment can be used for tertiary tillage, depending on the specific needs of the soil and crop. Common equipment includes field cultivators, harrows, tandem or off-set disks, and packers. These implements are designed to create different types of soil disturbances, ranging from shallow cultivation to deep tillage.
Selective Location of Tertiary Tillage
Tertiary tillage is usually selective in terms of location, focusing on specific areas where soil disruption is needed. This approach helps to minimize soil erosion and preserve soil structure in areas where tillage is not necessary. By targeting specific areas, farmers can effectively manage weeds and improve soil conditions without causing excessive soil disturbance.
Not Always Utilized
It is important to note that tertiary tillage is not always utilized in agricultural practices. The decision to employ tertiary tillage depends on several factors, including the soil type, crop species, and specific management objectives. In some cases, other methods such as mulching or cover cropping may be more suitable for weed control and soil management.
Conclusion
Tertiary tillage is a valuable practice in agriculture, particularly in organic farming systems. By manipulating the soil structure and creating favorable conditions for crop growth, tertiary tillage helps to control weeds, incorporate fertilizers and herbicides, and improve soil aeration and water infiltration. The selective and targeted application of tertiary tillage minimizes soil erosion and preserves soil structure, making it an essential practice for sustainable agriculture.
References
FAQs
What is tertiary tillage?
Tertiary tillage is a type of tillage that occurs after planting and involves the cultivation of crop rows to disrupt the soil and create favorable conditions for crop growth and management.
What is the purpose of tertiary tillage?
The main purpose of tertiary tillage is to manipulate the soil structure and create grooves or disturbances that facilitate crop growth and management. This type of tillage is often used to control weeds, incorporate fertilizers and herbicides, and improve soil aeration and water infiltration.
Why is tertiary tillage more widely used in organic farming?
Tertiary tillage is more widely used in organic farming systems because the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides is prohibited in organic farming. Tertiary tillage helps to control weeds and manage soil without the use of chemicals.
What equipment is used for tertiary tillage?
Various types of equipment can be used for tertiary tillage, including field cultivators, harrows, tandem or off-set disks, and packers. The specific equipment used depends on the soil type, crop species, and management objectives.
Is tertiary tillage always necessary?
No, tertiary tillage is not always necessary. The decision to employ tertiary tillage depends on several factors, including the soil type, crop species, and specific management objectives. In some cases, other methods such as mulching or cover cropping may be more suitable for weed control and soil management.
What are the benefits of tertiary tillage?
Tertiary tillage can provide several benefits, including weed control, improved soil aeration and water infiltration, incorporation of fertilizers and herbicides, and breaking up compacted soil layers.
What are the potential drawbacks of tertiary tillage?
Excessive tertiary tillage can lead to soil erosion, loss of soil structure, and increased fuel consumption. Therefore, it is important to use tertiary tillage judiciously and only when necessary.
What are some alternatives to tertiary tillage?
Alternatives to tertiary tillage include mulching, cover cropping, and the use of herbicides. These methods can help to control weeds and manage soil without the need for tillage.