What term is used to define the act of preparing and working the soil?

The term that defines the act of preparing and working the soil is cultivation. Cultivation involves various practices aimed at enhancing soil structure, aeration, and fertility, which prepares the ground for planting crops. This process can include tilling, applying fertilizers, and managing weeds, all of which help create an optimal environment for seed germination and growth.

While tillage is also related to soil preparation, it specifically refers to the turning over and loosening of soil using tools or machinery. Cultivation encompasses a broader range of activities beyond just turning the soil, emphasizing the overall care and preparation of the soil for agricultural production.

Planting refers specifically to the act of placing seeds or plants into the soil after it has been prepared, and harvesting pertains to the gathering of mature crops. Hence, while these terms relate to the agricultural process, cultivation most accurately describes the preparation and working of the soil itself.