Although timely planting is important, it is equally important to avoid pre-plant tillage and planting when soils are wet. In general, a field is ready for seedbed preparation when soil in the depth of tillage crumbles when squeezed. Pre-plant tillage when soils are wet can create a cloddy seedbed that reduces seed-to-soil contact. Achieving excellent seed-to-soil contact is important for rapid and uniform imbibition of moisture by seeds. Tillage when soils are wet also can create a zone of compaction just below the depth of tillage that can restrict root development.