What is soil compaction, and why is it harmful to trees?
Soil compaction, resulting from heavy foot traffic, livestock, vehicles, parking, and construction related activities, is a serious problem for trees. Soil compaction destroys the soil’s natural porosity by eliminating the air spaces within the soil. Compacted soil contains little air, holds little available water, and is harder, less penetrable and more resistant to water penetration. Consequently, root growth and tree health suffers. Soil compaction is best managed by preventing it. Soil is more readily compacted when the soil is wet and when the surface organic layer (natural mulching) is removed.
