Definition:
Cultivation is the act of digging into or cutting up an existing soil bed in order to better prepare it for planting. Organic cultivation means getting soil into good shape using non-chemical, pesticide-free methods, such as organic soil amendments.
Effective organic soil cultivation will help control weeds and produce healthy plants. Cultivation is a non-toxic integrated pest management solution. Aerating, or exposing the soil to air cultivation, is part of cultivation.
Also Known As:
Tilling, soil refinement
Examples:
- Cultivating crops regularly can reduce unnecessary herbicide applications.
- Cultivation between crop field rotations will decrease weed establishment, especially when growing perennials.
- Organic farmers should cultivate the soil before planting crops.
