What Causes Soil Compaction?

Do you have a lawn that you’ve been taking care of all summer, but it seems no matter what you do, not much will grow? Have you considered the possibility that your Muncie lawn may be compacted? Soil compaction is just one issue that makes it really tough to grow a lush, thick, green lawn. One of the best ways to combat this problem is by having your lawn aerated by All Brothers Lawn Squad LLC. Before we talk about aeration, let’s talk about what soil compaction is and what causes it.

What Is Soil Compaction?

There are three characteristics of compacted soil — soil particles that are closely pressed together, reduced space between dirt particles, and an increase in the density of the soil. All three of these elements cause soil compaction. The property and function of the soil are altered as well. Air and water cannot adequately move through the dirt which, in turn, inhibits the growth of plants. Compacted soil can be found in residential yards and gardens, as well as pastures and commercial farms. 

What Causes Soil Compaction?

Pressed soil particles are caused by a number of factors, including:

• continuous foot traffic.
• repeated driving and parking.
• consistent construction activities.
• repetitive crop planting practices.
• repeated use of heavy equipment.

Not only does the consistent driving, walking, and parking of people or equipment cause compacted soil, but the degree and distribution of load pressure can result in some areas being more tightly compressed together than others.

How Does Aeration Help?

Aeration is the process of creating small holes in compacted or compressed soil. These tiny holes break up the compacted soil, making it easier for nutrients like water and oxygen to reach plant roots. They also improve drainage so plant roots can grow.

Schedule a Lawn Assessment Today

Contact All Brothers at (765) 371-4186 to schedule a lawn assessment for your Muncie home today. We proudly serve our customers with our family of professional lawn services such as seeding and renovation, fertilization and weed control, and lawn pest control. 

Source: “Assessing and Addressing Soil Compaction in Your Yard.” Web article. New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Jan 2020. Web. 10 Sep. 2022.