The effects of soil compaction and soil water on the yield of Norgold Russet potatoes

The effects of tractor traffic and soil water potential (20 and 50 cb) on yield and quality of Norgold Russet ''M' potato tubers were evaluated in 1986 and 1987. Tractor traffic was evaluated by bulk density and penetrometer resistance. Soil water content was measured by gravimetricly. Penetrometer resistance was significantly greater in the traffic rows of both the 20- and 50-cb irrigation treatments in 1986; however, soil strength in 1987 was significantly greater only in the 50-cb irrigation treatment. Bulk density and gravimetric water content were not significantly affected by repeated tractor traffic.

Total tuber, U.S. No. 1, and marketable tuber yields were significantly reduced in the traffic and 50-cb irrigation treatments in 1986 and 1987. Specific gravity was not reduced in the traffic and 50-cb irrigation treatments in 1986; however, a significant reduction in specific gravity was observed in the 50-cb irrigation treatment in 1987.