What impact does compacted soil have on irrigation?

Compacted soil significantly restricts both water movement and root growth, directly impacting crop performance negatively. When soil becomes compacted, the spaces between soil particles become smaller, reducing porosity. This leads to poor infiltration of water, as water struggles to penetrate the soil. As a result, the soil can become waterlogged on the surface while still being unable to retain moisture deeper down, creating areas that are either too dry or too wet.

In addition to restricting water movement, compacted soil negatively affects root growth. Roots require space to expand and access water and nutrients. Compaction can make it more difficult for roots to penetrate the soil, thus limiting their ability to take up essential resources. This reduced root development can contribute to insufficient nutrition and hydration for the plants, ultimately leading to poor crop performance, lower yields, and reduced resilience against drought and disease.

In contrast, some of the other options might suggest benefits of compaction that do not align with soil science. For instance, the idea that compacted soil enhances water movement or significantly increases crop yield contradicts established knowledge about soil health and plant growth requirements.