Soil Structure & Compaction
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context.
Evidence & Context
An extensive body of scientific literature has established that a penetration resistance exceeding 2.0 megapascals (MPa), equivalent to 2000 kilopascals (kPa), represents a significant physical barrier that severely inhibits or halts the elongation of roots for a wide range of agricultural crops.
Soil penetration resistance threshold above which root growth is severely impeded.
This benchmark defines the critical threshold of soil strength beyond which ecological function is severely compromised in tropical and subtropical rainforest agricultural systems.
Strong and consistent evidence across multiple crop and soil types establishes 2000 kPa as the lower critical threshold for severe physical degradation.
Sources (1)
High soil penetration resistance reduces sugarcane root system development
View SourceSupporting Sources (4)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Soil health: the foundation of sustainable agriculture - 2001 ...
View SourceSoil compaction and controlled traffic considerations in Australian cotton-farming systems
View Source
Compendium of Smart Sugar Practices - Queensland Government
View SourceWater Retention - Oz Soils 4 - UNE, accessed May 11, 2025,
View Source