There is growing realisation in the farming world that soil has a natural structure which can be damaged by tillage. A relatively undisturbed structure is more efficient in its use of nutrients and in its abilty to encourage microbial activity and hence the breakdown of organic matter. Various systems have been developed to protect the soil's structure and to assist in restoring this inherent asset.

See also: Masanobu Fukuoka, soil, no-till agriculture

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