Rolling is used to smooth out uneven surfaces caused by grazing animals and heavy traffic which can also be used to press uprooted or heaved plants back into the soil to prevent desiccation. Flatter land makes subsequent weed control and harvesting easier. A water-filled roller has the advantage that the water may be drained out for lighter use or for transport. In frost-prone areas a water filled roller must be drained for winter storage to avoid breakage due to the expansion for water as it turns to ice.

Rolling can produce a firm surface to provide a “faster” surface. Like all field practices it must be done correctly so it won’t do more harm than good.