Science · Soils
Compacted Soils
Soils pressed by traffic or equipment, losing pore space so water, air and roots cannot move freely.
Soil condition
Profile
- Bulk density
- Above ~1.6 g/cm³ in loams
- Causes
- Foot traffic, mowers, construction
- Remedies
- Core aeration, deep tine, topdressing
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Readings swing between saturated and dry
- Salinity tolerance
- Salts accumulate near surface
- Drought tolerance
- Roots stay shallow
Irrigation runs off; water doesn't reach roots.
Problems to watch
- Runoff
- Shallow roots
- Black layer
Stress signs
- Puddles
- Thin, worn turf
- Hard surface
Where you'll find it
- High-traffic sports fields
- Event lawns
- Construction-affected trees
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.