Which soil property is greatly affected by excessive tillage?

The property of soil that is greatly affected by excessive tillage is structure. Soil structure refers to the arrangement of soil particles and the spaces between them. It plays a critical role in various soil functions, such as water infiltration, root penetration, and aeration. Excessive tillage disrupts the natural aggregation of soil particles, leading to a breakdown of the soil structure.

When soil is tilled too frequently or too intensively, it can lead to compaction, which reduces pore space and limits the movement of air and water through the soil. This compaction can hinder root growth and negatively impact plant health. Moreover, poor soil structure results in increased erosion and runoff, as water cannot effectively infiltrate the soil.

While texture, color, and pH are important soil properties, they are typically not significantly altered by tillage practices. Soil texture, which is determined by the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay, remains relatively stable over time. Soil color can change due to organic matter content or iron oxidation but is not directly influenced by tillage. Soil pH can change with the addition of fertilizers or organic amendments but is not a direct result of tillage methods. Thus, when considering the impacts of excessive tillage, it is