Machine-ploughing can be carried out 2-3 times during land preparation, depending on the soil.  The depth of ploughing is 30 cms.  The first ploughing is directed toward breaking the soil and turking it over. The second ploughing aims at further breaking the soil, paving the way to place tapioca cuttings in the ground.  In some areas, there is need to plough for a third time.