Impact of Repeated Tillage Passes on Soil Physical Characteristics under Paddy Cultivation

Abstract

Paddy is predominantly cultivated under rainfed conditions. A series of tillage treatments, involving different combinations and passes of cultivators and rotavators, were evaluated to assess their impact on soil bulk density, moisture content, depth of cut, puddling index, weed population, energy use, and overall economic performance in transplanting and direct seeding systems. The results showed that both systems significantly influenced soil physical properties and field conditions. In transplanting, treatment T5 (Rotavator × 3) recorded the highest puddling index (58.2%), with better moisture retention, lower bulk density, and minimal weed regermination. While, treatment T8 (Cultivator × 2 + Rotavator × 1) in direct seeding method achieved the maximum depth of cut (92 mm) along with initial weed suppression, proving effective under dry conditions. Further, it observed that all treatments reduced weed population immediately after tillage, though regermination varied depending on the implement type and intensity. The study further stated that more passes of the rotavator improves puddling index, while cultivator passes enhance soil penetration under dry conditions. Energy analysis suggested that T5 found to be the most suitable option for transplanting, whereas T8 is recommended for direct seeding. The findings emphasize that farmers should adopt site-specific tillage practices to improve field efficiency, control weeds, conserve soil moisture, and optimize resource use for sustainable rice production.