How can improper tillage practices impact agricultural productivity?

Improper tillage practices can indeed lead to nutrient deficiencies in crops, and this is primarily due to the disruption of soil structure and the potential for nutrient loss. Tillage affects the way nutrients are cycled in the soil. For example, excessive tillage can break down soil aggregates, leading to increased erosion and nutrient leaching. When soil is overly disturbed, key nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can become more susceptible to loss through runoff or leaching, which can ultimately reduce their availability to plants.

Additionally, improper tillage can disrupt the natural habitat of soil microorganisms, which play a crucial role in decomposing organic matter and making nutrients available to plants. If these microorganisms are adversely affected, it can further contribute to nutrient deficiencies.

While other options mention aspects such as weed growth and microbial activity, they do not directly address the core impact of nutrient availability, which is vital for crop health and agricultural productivity.