Why Is Plowing Important

Plowing also makes it easier to plant. Plowing breaks up the blocky structure of the soil which can aid in drainage and root growth. Plowing fields can also turn organic matter into soil to increase decomposition and add nutrients from the organic matter to the soil.

What are the advantages of using a plow?

Moldboard plowing can provide soil pulverization and nearly complete burial of weed seeds and residue. Secondary tillage operations, such as disking or field cultivation, allow for uniform incorporation of fertilizers and pesticides and smoothing of the soil surface.

How did the plow impact society?

The steel plow of 1837, developed by John Deere, was an invention that contributed greatly to the agricultural world. It allowed farmers to cultivate crops more efficiently because the smooth texture of the steel blade would not allow the soil of the Great Plains to stick as the cast iron plow did.