Compacted Soil
Clay and fine textured soils are susceptible to compaction, particularly when wet. Compaction may result from heavy traffic or construction damage including cuts, fills, and moving heavy equipment. Soil compaction results in less room for air and water availability and can create difficult growing conditions for fine root hairs. Soil compaction can lead to declining health in or death of shrubs and trees, even well-established ones.
Common Symptoms
Results in less room for air and water availability
Creates difficult growing conditions for fine root hairs
Leads to declining health in or death of shrubs and trees
Treatments
Excavate the compacted soil, and then add the necessary amendments based on what the tree or shrub needs. The Supersonic Air Knife will move and aerate compacted soil easily. Using the Vacuum and Dirt Duffle attachments, you can store removed soil, add and mix soil amendments, and move it back.
For soil amendments, use compost or a liquid amendment to help promote growth of roots and fine root hairs. Much of the Arbor Rx line will benefit in creating healthier soil conditions that help with root growth. Recommended products are NutriRoot® or FOURPlay™, which helps with root growth and moisture management; EnviroPlex™ for soil conditioning; CytoGro® or SeaXtra® for biostimulants plus trace essential minerals, and Hydretain® for greater moisture management.
When To Treat
Treat in spring or fall during more dormant periods of growth. Treat with FOURPlay and Hydretain during dry periods to help roots with moisture management.
Suggested Treatment Programs:
- NutriRoot plus NutriSolve (spring & fall)
- NutriRoot (spring & fall) plus EnviroPlex (summer)
- FourPlay (summer and period of drought)
- FourPlay plus Nutrisolve (drought and micronutrient deficiency)
- Hydretain plus CytoGro /SeaXtra (summer and period of drought)
- Hydretain plus EnviroPlex – moisture manager plus soil conditioner
References And Photo Credits
Photo Credit: Advanced Turf Solutions
Photo Credits: Rutgers University
