HELPING FAMERS KNOW THE fACTS
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to use ACT soil conditioner?
Anytime… ACT can be applied throughout the year. The recommended times for optimal use is after harvesting and before planting.
Can ACT soil conditioner improve all soil types?
Yes… ACT soil conditioner has been proven to enhance the performance of all soil types with the first application.
Does ACT soil conditioner work with only certain types of crops?
No… Act will improve the growth of every crop with a root system.
Is ACT soil conditioner environmentally friendly?
Absolutely… ACT soil conditioner is a bio-degradable, non-toxic product. ACT can be safely applied around livestock and near water sources.
What is Compaction?
Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing the pore space between them. This increases the weight of solids per unit volume of soil. Soil compaction occurs in response to pressure exerted by field machinery or animals. The risk of compaction is greatest when soil is wet.
What Causes Soil Compaction?
Soil compaction is caused by tilling, harvesting and grazing animals when the soils are wet. Soil water content is also a big influence on compaction. A dry soil is much more resistant to compaction. Some other factors that can affect soil compaction include texture, pressure exerted along with composition of the soil.
Why is Compaction a Problem?
Compaction restricts rooting depth, which reduces the uptake of water and nutrients by plants. It decreases pore size, increases the proportion of water-filled pore space at field moisture, and decreases soil temperature. This affects the activity of soil organisms by decreasing the rate of decomposition of soil organic matter and the release of nutrients.
How Can Compaction Be Reduced?
- Reduce the number of trips across the area.
- Till or harvest when the soils are not wet.
- Reduce the pressure of equipment.
- Maintain or increase organic matter in the soil.
- Harvest timber on frozen soil or snow.
- Use ACT Agriculture Compaction Treatment® Soil Conditioner