THE IMPACT OF TRACTOR POWER AND MULTIPLE PASSES ON SOIL COMPACTION AND CROP YIELD IN DIFFERENT SOIL TYPES

Abstract

This study examined the impact of tractor power on soil compaction and crop yield in different soil types and climatic conditions. The experiment used a split-split plot design with three replications to test the effects of tractor power level (40, 60, 80, and 100 kW) and number of passes (1, 3, and 5) and soil type l compaction and crop yield. A four-wheel drive tractor with radial tires, tire inflation pressure of 120 kPa, and speed of 5 km/h was used on 10 m × 10 m plots with different soil types and climatic conditions. The results showed changes in soil stress, bulk density, porosity, water infiltration rate, yield, and quality by 15.6%, 8.7%, -6.5%, -18.2%, -11.4%, and 4.2% respectively at low tractor power; by 23.4%, 12.4%, -9.3%, -26.7%, -16.8%, and 6.1% at medium power; and by 31.2%, 16.3%, -12.1%, -35.4%, -22.3%, and 8.1% at high power. However, soil compaction increased with higher tractor power and passes, negatively impacting crop yield and quality. Lower tractor power and fewer passes resulted in better crop quality but lower yield compared to higher power levels. Recommendations included practices to mitigate compaction and improve soil/crop management to aid farmers in managing soil compaction and enhancing agricultural systems.