Reducing Soil Compaction to Improve Drainage

Soil compaction is any process that compresses soil particles and reduces pore or air space between them. This process reduces or eliminates water infiltration and can cause runoff and erosion.

Plant roots may have a harder time penetrating the soil and may not get enough oxygen and nutrients. Soil compaction occurs in agricultural as well as urban landscapes.

Ways to Reduce Compaction

• Avoid tilling wet soil
• Keep construction equipment off of soils around tree roots
• Avoid overworking the soil

Ways to Improve Compacted Soils

• Add organic matter
• Use mulches
• Deep cultivation

Additional Resources:

West

Soil Compaction

Southeast

Florida - Soil Compaction
North Carolina - Improving Your Soil