Comparison of soil physical properties of row and inter-row: A basis for control traffic in cane

This study quantifies the effect of five ratoons on a yellow podzolic soil at Bundaberg, emphasising the physical differences between cane row and inter-row. Soil strength, water infiltration, bulk density and image analysis were collected from adjoining rows and inter-rows. Results show that soil in the row was less strong, less dense and had more pores and more fine pores than in the inter-row. These are seen as positive results as the data demonstrate the potential for cane to maintain good structure in the row. The inter-row has become a hard traffic zone with potential for increased traction and improved wet-weather access. The question remaining is whether the current row/inter-row configuration, with its strong differences in soil compaction status between the row and the inter-row, can be carried-over to the next plant cane crop?