Which factors should be considered in evaluating soil tilth?

Evaluating soil tilth primarily focuses on the physical condition of the soil that affects its ability to support plant growth. Among the most critical factors in assessing soil tilth are texture and structure.

Soil texture refers to the relative proportions of different particle sizes—sand, silt, and clay. This influences water retention, drainage, and aeration within the soil, all of which are vital for root development and overall plant health. On the other hand, soil structure refers to the arrangement of soil particles and the spaces between them. Well-structured soils promote good tilth as they allow for movement of air and water, reducing compaction and enhancing root penetration.

While color, depth, temperature, and rainfall do have an impact on soil and its characteristics, they are not as directly related to the concept of tilth. For example, color can indicate organic matter content and some aspects of moisture or mineral composition, but it does not necessarily reflect physical conditions that affect soil workability or plant growth. Similarly, depth influences the volume of soil available for roots but isn’t a direct measure of soil tilth. Temperature and rainfall can affect soil health and moisture levels but are dynamic factors rather than static properties of the soil.

Thus, focusing on texture and