Abstract

Soil compaction represents one of the most significant threats to sustainable agricultural productivity worldwide. This comprehensive review examines the multifaceted impacts of soil compaction on root development and subsequent crop yield over extended periods. Through analysis of experimental data and field studies, we demonstrate that soil compaction reduces root penetration by 35-65%, decreases water infiltration rates by 40-80%, and can result in yield losses ranging from 10-50% depending on crop type and severity of compaction. The study reveals that compacted soils exhibit bulk densities exceeding 1.6 g cm⁻³ in clay soils and 1.8 g cm⁻³ in sandy soils, creating physical barriers that impede root growth and nutrient uptake. Long-term effects include altered soil structure, reduced microbial activity, and compromised water-holding capacity. Our findings indicate that prevention through controlled traffic farming and appropriate tillage practices is more cost-effective than remediation, which can take 3-5 years for full recovery. This research provides critical insights for developing sustainable soil management strategies that preserve soil health while maintaining agricultural productivity.