Why is maintaining good soil tilth important?

Maintaining good soil tilth is crucial because it enhances nutrient absorption. When soil is well-tilled, it has a structure that allows roots to penetrate easily, facilitating the movement of water and nutrients through the soil. This improved structure creates a favorable environment for microbial activity, which plays a significant role in breaking down organic matter and transforming it into plant-available nutrients. Good tilth also means there are adequate air pockets in the soil, which helps roots respire and absorb nutrients more effectively.

While the other choices highlight various benefits of good soil management, they do not address the primary reason for maintaining good soil tilth as directly as nutrient absorption does. For example, while having good tilth can make planting easier or help keep the soil light and fluffy, the most critical function relates to the enhanced ability of plants to uptake the nutrients they need for healthy growth.