Project Material on THE INFLUENCE OF SOIL COMPACTION ON GRASS GROWTH
THE INFLUENCE OF SOIL COMPACTION ON GRASS GROWTH
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Soil compaction is a widespread issue that significantly affects plant growth and development, including the growth of grass species. Compacted soils can impede root penetration, restrict nutrient and water uptake, and limit gas exchange, ultimately leading to reduced plant vigor and biomass production (Bengough et al., 2011). As grasses play a crucial role in agriculture, landscaping, and ecosystem stability, understanding the influence of soil compaction on their growth is of paramount importance.
Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are compressed, resulting in reduced pore spaces and increased soil density (Pires et al., 2018). Factors such as heavy machinery use, foot traffic, and improper land management practices contribute to soil compaction in various environments, including agricultural fields, sports fields, and urban landscapes (Hamza and Anderson, 2005).
Grass species, being the predominant ground cover in many ecosystems, are particularly susceptible to the negative effects of soil compaction. Their growth and overall health can be significantly impacted by the changes in soil structure and physical properties caused by compaction (Bengough et al., 2011). Consequently, understanding the relationship between soil compaction and grass growth is crucial for optimizing land management practices, sustainable agriculture, and the establishment and maintenance of healthy turf.
Previous studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of soil compaction on plant growth. For instance, research conducted by Silva et al. (2017) found that soil compaction negatively affected the germination and