A basic agricultural implement designed to scratch or score the earth rather than invert a furrow. Lacking a curved mouldboard, it parts the soil equally on both sides of its draft line. It is traditionally used in arid or semi-arid regions where preserving soil moisture is critical, or for shallow cultivation in light, sandy soils.
Heard on the job
The tractor is pulling a light plough through the orchard alleys to disrupt the weed seedlings without damaging the tree roots.
Also heard as
- ard
- scratch plough
Do not mix it up with
- Mouldboard plough: A light plough only scratches the soil, whereas a mouldboard plough cuts and completely flips the soil over.
Related terms
Mouldboard plough
A primary tillage implement that cuts, lifts, and completely turns over a layer of soil.
Swing plough
A traditional horse-drawn plough that lacks a supporting wheel under the front beam.
Plough
A heavy farm implement with a blade used to break up soil and cut furrows in preparation for sowing.