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Does freezing and thawing alleviate compaction?
Depending on area of country, freezing and thawing cycles have
often been given unmerited credit for relieving compaction. Repeated
cycles of freezing and thawing can be very effective in eliminating
surface compaction found in top 102 mm (4 in.) of soil. Freezing and
thawing cycle works as water in soil profile freezes and expands.
Consequently, deeper subsoil compaction rarely sees this temperature
variation.
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When does compaction cause most potential
for yield loss?
Soil compaction itself may not be as noticeable in years where
rainfall is timely and in manageable amounts. Since compaction impedes
way moisture and roots move through soil, most of damage is during
times of drought or heavy rains. When roots cannot pass through horizontal
compaction layers, they are trapped in top inches of soil. In times
of drought, subsoil moisture moves very slowly upward through compacted
area toward roots. In times of heavy rains, water percolates slowly
through compacted area causing a backlog (ponding). This backlog causes
biological activity and root growth to slow and stop.
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Are there other ways to help identify soil
compaction?
If compaction is severe enough to limit yield and root growth,
it is best identified through digging a trench or pit. By inspecting
environment that roots have to manage, one is better apt to identify
problems. Plant roots are ultimate predictor of environmental concerns
and ultimately yield!
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How does a grower know when it is too wet
to work field?
Soil is most compatible at or near its field capacity. There
is not a defined test that will tell you when it is right time. Many
agronomists suggest that you dig to depth of desired tillage pass
and take a sample in one hand. Pinch sample between first finger and
thumb. If soil ribbons out of your palm, it is too wet to work. However,
if soil crumbles, it is safe to work field to that depth.