This publication considers root requirements of the soil environment, the role of soil structure including its maintenance and improvement, tillage and the effects of water storage and irrigation on crop production. The significance of soil biota and organic matter in maintaining and improving soil structure is also emphasised. The case for use of conservation tillage systems to reduce crusting and erosion is addressed, and details of simple water harvesting and irrigation methods, which make effective use of the soil physical environment, are also presented.
GARDNER, C.M.K. LARYEA, K.B. UNGER, P.W. (1999): Soil Physical Constraints to Plant Growth and Crop Production. Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) URL [Accessed: 18.07.2012]