Knowra Soil compaction Soil compaction Soil compaction is the compression of soil that reduces pore space and restricts the movement of air, water, and roots. It can result from machinery, livestock, or repeated human and natural pressures.
Soil porosity : The fraction of soil volume occupied by pores rather than solid mineral or organic matter. Compaction lowers pore volume, especially the larger pores that support rapid drainage and aeration.
Agricultural soil compaction : Soil compaction caused by farming operations, livestock, or agricultural traffic. Field machinery and grazing animals are major pressures on cultivated and pasture soils.
Cone penetrometer : A probe with a standardized cone tip used to measure soil penetration resistance. Cone measurements help map compacted zones, though soil moisture strongly affects readings.
Root restriction : The limitation of root growth or distribution by physical, chemical, or biological barriers. Dense layers can limit rooting depth and reduce access to water and nutrients.
Soil crusting : The formation of a thin, dense surface layer that can impede water entry and seedling emergence. Crusting is concentrated at the surface, unlike compaction that may extend deeper.
Bulk density : The dry mass of soil per unit of its total volume, including pore space. Higher bulk density commonly indicates that soil particles have been packed more tightly.
Subsoil compaction : Compaction below the cultivated topsoil, often created by repeated heavy axle loads. Deep compacted layers can persist after surface loosening and obstruct roots and drainage.
Soil bulk density measurement : A procedure for estimating dry soil mass per unit volume from an intact sample. Bulk density measurements can identify denser layers associated with compaction.
Waterlogging : Saturation of soil with water that leaves too little air for many plant roots. Slow drainage through compacted soil can prolong waterlogging after rainfall.
Soil sealing : The blockage of soil surface pores by fine particles or physical, chemical, or biological processes. Sealing reduces infiltration at the surface without necessarily compressing the soil profile.
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