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Re: Rototilling - What is the alternative

I would like to introduce another perspective into the discussion.

There are various methods that may be used to substitute for physically 
incorporating materials into a soil profile - tilling, plowing, double 
digging, rototilling, etc.

Substitutes for such physical methods (non-tilling) include herbicides, 
organic and inorganic mulching regimes, etc.

A physical intervention is necessary to correct the problems associated 
with soils such as 1.)  a subsoil that remains after contractors scrape 
off the top soil, 2.)  heavy clay or very sandy soils, and 3.) compacted 
soils that present drainage problems.. Solutions may include one or more 
modifications such as raised beds, trenching to install drainage fields, 
and the addition of organic materials to modify the structure/texture of 
the top 24 (or less) inches of the soil profile.

Soils with chemical problems such as pH or excessive amounts of sodium 
add to the problems of providing a favorable environment for root growth.

The problems are complex and a "one solution fits all" approach is very 
simplistic. Plant health is the best defense against diseases and pests. 
It should start with insuring a plant will grow and thrive throughout 
its lifetime. Putting a $10 tree into a $100 hole will help to insure a 
deep rooted tree that will withstand storms and droughts.

An approach that will allow various non-tillage solutions assumes that 
the existing soil structure will support positive plant growth. The 
measurement of success varies according to the commercial or home 
gardening evaluation standards.

What is practical on a small scale using hand labor may fail to be 
economically viable on a large commercial scale. A gardener may derive 
pleasure and satisfaction by walking among the plants daily and hand 
pulling or hoeing weeds; however, on a farmer generally fines this 
solution is almost impossible to accomplish and hiring additional 
skilled help is uneconomical unless the value of the crop is extremely 
valuable.

Claude Sweet
San Diego, CA

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