Today’s typical farming operation often requires bigger machinery that weighs more and carries heavier loads than machinery did decades ago. When growers consider the impact of heavier equipment in the field combined with persistent weather volatility, soil compaction should remain top of mind all season long.
What is soil compaction?
Soil compaction is an increase in the soil’s bulk density, resulting from pressure. Essentially, soil particles are forced closer together which reduces the air space between them.
What to remember with soil compaction?
- It worsens when soil is wet.
- Reduces water percolation.
- Limits soil’s air and water-holding capacity.
- Restricts root development.
- Limits nutrient movement.
- Reduces crop yield.
How can soil compaction be reduced or mitigated?
Choosing the right farm tires and ensuring proper tire inflation pressure can help the grower maximize their machinery’s capabilities, decreasing soil compaction and helping to build favorable soil structure.
Firestone farm tires built with Advanced Deflection Design (AD2) technology can further help growers get more work done in less time and with less soil compaction compared to standard, equivalent-sized radial tires. This newer class of farm tires can carry more load at a lower pressure, resulting in a larger footprint that reduces the potential for soil compaction. The tires also improve traction and provide a smoother ride for the operator, which reduces fuel consumption and time spent in the field.
Connect with a Firestone Ag field engineer for tips to reduce soil compaction throughout the season and to learn more AD2 technology available for tractor, sprayer, implement and harvest tires.
About Bridgestone Americas, Inc., parent company of Firestone Ag:
Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 50,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.
