Tillage is the mechanical manipulation of soil to prepare it for planting, manage crop residues, or control weeds. Tillage can range from light cultivation to deep plowing, and its effects on soil health depend on factors like soil type, timing, and intensity. While tillage can improve soil aeration and break up compacted soil, excessive tillage can lead to erosion, loss of organic matter, and soil degradation. Conservation tillage practices aim to minimize soil disturbance.