A Study on Soil Compaction Management in Tobacco Cultivation in Mysore Region of India

Soil is a dynamic medium in which the physical, chemical and biological processes are changing all the time under the influences of man and nature. The rate at which soil changes under the influence of man's activities are so fast and often negative that this degradation needs urgent attention. Healthy soil includes not only the physical particles making up the soil, but also adequate pore space between the particles for the movement and storage of air and water. This is necessary for plant growth and for a favourable environment for soil organisms to live. Compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, thereby reducing the amount of pore space. Most farmers are aware of compaction problems, but the significance is often underestimated. Compaction effects on crop yield can be a significant factor in today's farm economy with a specific reference to tobacco. Thus in order to understand the causes, effects and impacts of soil compaction, ITC limited - Agri Business Division –ILTD undertook a comprehensive study in Mysore region (India) to diagnose the extent of soil compaction in farms and evaluate the impact of subsoiling in breaking the compaction layers.