Negative impact of soil compaction
In the next 30 years, the global population is projected to grow by more than 2 billion people. Already, there are significant challenges in finding enough land to grow crops that can feed everyone.
🌾 Sustainable farming is becoming increasingly difficult. While we have access to crop varieties that are more productive than those of previous generations, we also rely on machinery that makes farming easier and more efficient.
🏋 Unfortunately, the machines cause significant pressure on the soil causing compaction, that is, compacting the structure causing:
Reduction of aeration,
Reduction in water absorption capacity,
Reduction in hydraulic conductivity,
Increase soil pressure on roots,
Reduction of the possibility of soil penetration by roots,
Reduction of essential nutrients (N, K, P).
📉 The above-mentioned changes contribute to a reduction in the efficiency of photosynthesis, root size, nutrient absorption, resulting in crop losses.
đź’§The severity of these effects can vary depending on the type of soil. Moist soils are particularly susceptible to compaction because water acts as a lubricant between soil particles. As pressure is applied, the particles are more easily pressed together, leading to bigger compaction.
đź’ˇ How to deal with soil compaction?
Add organic matter like compost and mulch- it can help improve soil structure,
Use cover crops- their root systems penetrate the soil, creating channels that allow water and air to reach deeper levels of the soil,
Reduce foot traffic and use of heavy machinery,
Improve drainage- if compaction is worsened by poor drainage, consider improving the drainage of your soil.
📚 As highlighted, soil compaction poses a serious threat to agricultural productivity. Without significant changes to current farming practices, the negative impacts on soil health will only worsen, endangering food security and long-term sustainability.
Source: Shaheb et al. (2021) DOI: 10.1007/s42853-021-00117-7
Comments