Tilth
/TILTH/🧑🌾 Cultivation●● Intermediate
Also known as: soil tilth, soil condition
The overall quality of soil structure as it relates to ease of cultivation and suitability for plant growth. Good tilth describes soil that is friable, well-aerated, drains well yet retains adequate moisture, and has a crumbly texture that roots can easily penetrate. Tilth is improved by adding organic matter, avoiding compaction, and practicing minimal tillage. Clay soils worked when too wet develop poor tilth.
Etymology
Old English tilth (cultivation), from tilian (to work, till)
Example
“Years of adding compost and avoiding heavy machinery have given this garden bed excellent tilth.”