tilth

tilth

noun \ˈtilth\

Definition of TILTH

1

: cultivated land : tillage

2

: the state of aggregation of a soil especially in relation to its suitability for crop growth

Origin of TILTH

Middle English, from Old English, from tilian to till

First Known Use: before 12th century

Other Agriculture/Gardening Terms

fallow, graft, heirloom, loam, potash, soilage, swath, windfall

Rhymes with TILTH

filth, spilth

tilth

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

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.