Tractors and Soil Compaction

These days we posted a video on our Instagram showing us watering newly planted seedlings in the Timburi Project with the help of a tractor. We received a question from @sucessaonatural about whether this type of heavy vehicle compacts the soil.

The answer is yes: the tractor compacts the soil due to its weight.

We weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each field operation before deciding which equipment to use.

Tractors can compact soil, so it is important to use them carefully.

Choose tires with a wide contact area. On very clayey soil, select a suitable rear tire and the widest practical axle to spread the tractor’s weight. Furthermore, it is important to avoid entering the planting area with the tractor after rain, as the soil is more easily compacted when wet.

In agroforestry areas, we generally limit tractor use to the first weeks of planting, for tasks such as mowing, sowing and watering. This is because it is important to avoid using the tractor in places that we want to maintain soil cover. After this period, when there is soil cover or biomass, consider using a motorcycle with a trailer or a lighter vehicle, such as a pickup truck, to travel between the lines.

In our project in Timburi, we are planting 100 hectares and the amount of water we need to water the seedlings is very large, which is why it is being transported with the tractor. Despite its drawbacks, we chose a tractor for watering during the first weeks, until the seedlings were established and soil cover was in place. If you have a small area, this operation will not necessarily require a tractor and other options can be chosen. Weigh the trade-offs and choose the method that suits your site.

Thank you @sucessaonatural for the question!

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