Effect of Soil Compaction on Tanier Yields

Abstract

Two experiments to assess the effect of soil compaction on tanier yields were established on an Oxisol (Coto clay) and on an Ultisol (Corozal clay), which were either plowed once or four times at depths of 20 or 40 cm. An undisturbed plot was used as control. Maximum yields were obtained when the topsoil was extensively loosened. The use of a penetrometer for measuring mechanical impedance to tanier root development proved to be adequate. Resistance to penetration of the order of 25 kg cm^-2 or greater, at 15 cm depth, reduced tanier yields considerably.