To Till or Not to Till - In Conversation with Mark Measures

This second episode with Mark Measures explores the role of tillage in organic systems, the misunderstood relationship between tillage and soil carbon, the balance between weed control and nutrient cycling, and how tillage fits into wider farming systems. Mark reflects on 40 years in organic advice, with deep roots in research, education, and farmer engagement. He argues that tillage, especially shallow and strategic, plays a crucial role in organic farming; not only for weed control and seedbed preperation, but also for stimulating nutrient release and building long-term stable carbon. He explores common misconceptions such as the oversimplified view that all tillage depletes soil organic matter, and explains that tillage can mineralise nutrients and stabilise humus, which is essential for carbon sequestration and water retention. He also challenges the belief that zero-till is the pinnacle of organic, pointing to climate and system-specific limitations. Mark advocates for strong rotations, fertility-building leys, and shallow, context-sensitive ploughing. He emphasises that tillage must be considered as part of a broader ecological, economic, and agronomic strategy - balanced, site-specific, and always evolving.

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