The development of impermeable layer under straw mulch in a soil management trail

Abstract

Following the death of peach trees under a straw mulch system of management at Scoresby Horticultural Research Station, the soil moisture relations of mulch, cover crop, and pasture systems of management were studied. Examination of soil moisture levels indicated the presence of an impermeable layer under mulch. This was supported by results of investigations into surface run-off and porosity and by visual examination. It is suggested that trees died from surface waterlogging above the impermeable layer.