What is the long term impact on compaction and natural drainage?
Check for and correct existing problems before you start with reduced cultivation. Only sub-soil when needed and ensure depth is correct for problem. The undisturbed soil will begin to develop its own natural structure with pores and cracks through cycles of wetting and drying. Soil fauna will increase and their activity will increase the natural structure and porosity. Incorporation of organic material will help to stabilise the structure and support the soil fauna. Plough pans and smeared surfaces will begin to break up but rotational sub-soiling on less well structured soils or where required is vital. Improved structure and porosity improves natural drainage. Improved drainage reduces soil erosion, ponding and increases the loading strength of the soil.
