2020 Volume 55 Issue 4 Pages 247-255
In order to elucidate the effects of soil compaction by machines such as sugarcane harvesters on the early growth of the sugarcane stalk and root system, an examination using a root box was conducted with soil density adjusted. As hypothesized, growth and dry weight of roots tended to be suppressed as soil density increased. However, there was no clear negative relationship between soil density and growth conditions with regard to the length and diameter of the stem, and different results were obtained in the underground and above ground parts. In addition to consolidated soil being prone to stagnant water in the upper part due to the low penetration capacity of irrigation water, the root system was also relatively concentrated in the upper part. This was thought to have the advantageous effect of absorbing moisture. Since research results have shown that soil compaction is not only a negative factor, it is necessary to continue research in the future, including reevaluation tests in the warm season.
