Effects of direct drilling and reduced cultivation on soil conditions for root growth

Abstract

The two aspects of soil conditions and root growth in reduced cultivation systems are reviewed. Generally, an uncultivated soil is characterized by increased mechanical strength, reduced porosity greater moisture, more organic matter and structural stability at the surface, more earthworms and the development of nutrient gradients. Effects on root growth are much more variable and reflect the indirect relationship that exists between bulk soil properties and root growth.