What is the impact of soil compaction on irrigation?

Soil compaction directly affects the physical properties of the soil, leading to several important implications for irrigation practices. When soil is compacted, the spaces between soil particles, known as pore spaces, become smaller and more limited. This change significantly reduces the ability of water to infiltrate the soil, meaning that when irrigation occurs, the water cannot percolate down effectively into the root zone where plants need it.

Compacted soil often results in a harder surface that can repel water, causing surface runoff instead of absorption. This limits how effectively irrigation systems can deliver water to crops, ultimately reducing their ability to take up moisture and nutrients. Additionally, restricted infiltration can lead to poor drainage, resulting in waterlogging in some cases, which further hampers plant growth.

In summary, the correct choice highlights the critical relationship between soil compaction and its detrimental effects on water movement and irrigation effectiveness, making it clear why managing soil compaction is vital for successful irrigation practices.