What does the symbol of the plow represent in the FFA emblem?

The plow in the FFA emblem represents the labor and tillage of the soil, emphasizing the importance of agriculture and farming practices. This symbol highlights the foundational role of agriculture in the economy and society, illustrating the hard work and effort required to cultivate and produce food. It signifies that success in agriculture is rooted in the dedication and labor that goes into preparing the land, which is essential for sustaining communities and feeding the population.

The focus on tillage also connects with the ideals of growth and success in agriculture, but specifically, the plow is a direct representation of the physical work involved in farming, setting it apart from broader concepts such as knowledge and education, which pertain more directly to other symbols in the FFA emblem. The plow embodies the commitment to agriculture that is central to the organization's mission.