Primary tillage using a plough does more than loosen the soil for the next crop. The plough furrow creates a "clean slate", bringing additional agronomic advantages that directly affect subsequent passes and crop development.

The plough turns the soil over so that there are no harvest and plant residues at seed slot level, because these are reliably incorporated by the plough. Seed emergence is enabled, and the seed drill has an easier time doing its job.

In addition, the threat of weeds is reduced because weeds and their seeds are ploughed in and completely covered well below the surface. Especially in organic farming, the plough is still the tillage method of choice for a pre-emptive and active reduction of weeds, where weeds have become resistant and on problem sites.