Compaction is invisible from the surface, but crops show it: stunted roots, puddles after rain, uneven growth.
Spade test
Dig a small pit. Roots that turn sideways at a hard layer, or grow in a flat "mat", show compaction. Look at depth: a plough pan often sits 15–30 cm down.
Causes
Heavy machines on wet soil, repeated tillage at the same depth, and low organic matter.
Fixes
- Deep tillage or subsoiling only when soil is dry enough to shatter the layer.
- Controlled traffic: keep wheels on set lanes.
- Deep-rooted cover crops and organic matter to build lasting structure.
- Vary tillage depth each year.
Have a question, or need agricultural advice?
Contact us
