Encyclopedia of Agrophysics

2011 Edition
| Editors: Jan Gliński, Józef Horabik, Jerzy Lipiec

Hardpan Soils: Management

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-3585-1_66
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Synonyms

1Hard-layer soils; Management of hard-layered soils

Definition

Hardpan soil. A soil that has a layer whose physical characteristics limit root penetration and restrict water movement.

Penetration resistance. The penetration resistance (or soil strength) is usually measured as the force exerted on a standardized implement (penetrometer) as it is pushed into the soil divided by the cross-sectional area of its tip.

Introduction

Hardpans, hard layers, or compacted horizons, either surface or subsurface, are widespread problems that limit crop production. Hard layers can be caused by traffic or soil genetic properties that result in horizons with high density or cemented soil particles (Hamza and Anderson, 2005); these horizons have elevated penetration resistances that limit root growth and reduce water and airflow. Limited root growth leads to limited crop water and nutrient uptake. Reduced water flow prevents rainfall or irrigation water from filtering into the soil profile...

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Bibliography

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Copyright information

© Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2011

Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1.Agricultural Research Service, US Department of AgricultureCoastal Plain Soil, Water and Plant Research CenterFlorenceUSA