Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What can happen if you plow or till a bed when it is excessively wet?

1. Damage the structure of the soil

2. Stratify the soil

3. Kill beneficial organisms in the soil

4. Change the soil texture

The correct answer is: Damage the structure of the soil

When a bed is excessively wet, plowing or tilling can lead to significant damage to the structure of the soil. Wet soil can become compacted when disturbed, which reduces the pore spaces that are essential for air and water movement. This compaction can hinder root growth and impact the soil's ability to retain and drain moisture properly. It can also lead to the destruction of soil aggregation, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy balance of nutrients and microorganisms in the soil. While other options mention effects such as killing beneficial organisms or changing soil texture, the foremost issue with working wet soil relates to its structural integrity. Damage to soil structure can have lasting effects on soil health, affecting both plant growth and the ecosystem surrounding the soil.