Compaction Tolerant Trees
University Outreach Publication
Soil compaction is a complex set of physical, chemical, and biological constraints on tree growth. Principle components leading to limited growth are the loss of aeration pore space, poor gas exchange with the atmosphere, lack of tree available water, and mechanical impedance of root growth. There are significant genetic differences between tree species for tolerating various levels of soil compaction.
This publication provides a select list of compaction tolerant trees. Tolerant species were selected for their effectiveness in reacting to mechanical damage quickly, in surviving anaerobic soil conditions, and in adjusting their root systems to new conditions. This is not a comprehensive list and is only provided to show average species examples. Chronic and severe compaction will kill any tree. Some species, varieties, and individuals may tolerate various compacted soil conditions better than others.
(FOR00-002) June 2000
Kim D. Coder
2000
University of Georgia School of Forest Resources
Athens, GA
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Abiotic Factors, Critical Root Zone (CRZ), Forest Health, Infrastructure (green), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Plant Health Care, Roots, Silvics, Soil Health, Species Selection, Stress & Stressors, Diagnosis and Treatment, Selection (tree), Construction
International
Compaction, Compaction tolerant trees, Soil compaction
