Other Soil Problems

Erosion is not the only form of degradation experienced by Ontario's agricultural soils. Changes to the soil's structure also affects the quality of soil and crops.

Soil structure refers to the arrangement of particles and pore space in the topsoil and subsoil.  Well-structured or "mellow" topsoil is less prone to erosion, readily forms a seedbed for crop germination and allows water to infiltrate. Well structured subsoil allows crop roots to penetrate it, can be infiltrated by rainwater and does not restrict moisture available to crops.

Wet soils are weak. Poor timing of tillage may lead to compacted soils, excessive run-off and lost time.

Annual tillage operations in less-than-ideal moisture conditions conducted at the same depth each year can result in compacted soil layers or "plow-pans".

Soil crusting will prevent crop emergence.

Heavy harvest equipment on wet soils can cause severe rutting. Compacted soils pond water which reduce ability of crop roots to breathe and reduces root penetration. Proper drainage and better timing could prevent this.

Best Management Practices: A First Look