1. Primary Tillage

Objectives: To open up compact soil, incorporate organic matter or crop residues, and improve soil aeration.

Timing: Usually performed when the soil is at its most "friable" moisture level, often after the first rains or after a previous harvest.

2. Secondary Tillage

Objectives: To pulverize soil clods, level the field surface, and create a firm seedbed for better seed-to-soil contact.

Timing: Follows primary tillage, typically closer to the actual planting date to prevent moisture loss or re-compaction