Importance of Soil Cover 365

The Importance of Soil Cover: Living Vegetation and Winter-Killed Cover

1. Raindrop Impact and Soil Compaction

A drawing showing rain drop impact damage on bare soilRaindrops may seem gentle, but their impact on bare soil can be significant. When raindrops hit the ground, they transfer energy, leading to soil particle movement and compaction. In fact, raindrops hitting bare soil have nearly the force of a hammer hitting a mound of dirt 1. Here’s why soil cover matters:

2. Benefits of Soil Cover

a. Living Vegetation (Cover Crops)

b. Winter-Killed Cover

3. Raindrop Impact Comparison

Conclusion

Maintaining soil cover through living vegetation or winter-killed cover is essential for soil health, erosion prevention, and sustainable agriculture. By understanding raindrop impact and implementing effective cover practices, we can protect our soils and promote long-term productivity.

Remember, healthy soils are covered all the time! 🌱🌧️


References:

  1. Rain, rain, bombs away: Study makes impact in soil erosion thinking1
  2. 5.3 Raindrop Impact – Rain or Shine – OPEN OKSTATE2
  3. Response of biological soil crusts to raindrop erosivity and … – Springer3
  4. When rain collides with plants—patterns and forces of drop impact and …4
  5. Sediment detachment by raindrop impact on grassland and … – Springer6
  6. 5 Ways To Protect Soil this winter | 2020 Update – Soil Association5