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Abstract. With the rapid developing of computer technology discrete element method (DEM) has become popular in agricultural machinery design mainly due to its ability to model soil movement. In this study, the top-down organics matter incorporation capability of a cultivator, along with tillage forces, have been investigated using DEM over a range of operation depths and speeds. A previously calibrated DEM particle soil bin was used in the simulations. Inclusion plates, as an alternative designs, were also attached onto the cultivator and analyzed. Results of the study have shown that the amount of organic matter buried into the deeper levels of the soil can be improved using inclusion plates with a 5% penalty in draught force.