Pflug or Plough, derived from the Old English word "plough," is a noun referring to a farm implement designed to prepare soil for planting crops, specifically grain or vegetables. It is a tool commonly used in agriculture to break up and turn over the surface of the earth, creating furrows or trenches to loosen the soil and facilitate nutrient absorption.
Typically consisting of a heavy, sturdy frame mounted with a steel or iron blade, a pflug may be attached to a tractor or pulled by animals like horses or oxen. The blade, also known as a plowshare or ploughshare, is usually pointed and curved, which enables it to cut into the soil when pressure is applied. It is capable of slicing through the ground, turning it over, and burying any existing vegetation or crop residue.
The purpose of using a pflug is to prepare the soil for seed germination, incorporating organic matter or fertilizers, controlling weeds, and ensuring proper drainage. The act of plowing helps to improve soil aeration, break compacted clods, and promote the growth of healthy crops.
Pflugs come in various designs depending on the region and intended use. Different types include moldboard plows, chisel plows, disc plows, and subsoilers, each suited for different soil types and farming techniques.
In summary, a pflug is a farming implement that aids in soil preparation by cutting and turning over the earth, creating furrows for planting seeds and supporting crop growth.
