Soil Packing

the leveling and compacting of the surface layer of the soil with field rollers; an agricultural technique that is part of the system of pre- and post-sowing tillage of previously plowed or loosened soil.

When done before sowing, soil packing prevents the evaporation of moisture from the lower layers of the loosened soil and intensifies the condensation of water vapor in the upper layer. It promotes the even placement of seeds (especially for small-seed crops such as flax and grasses), ensures that moisture will rise by capillary action to the seedbed, and prevents the soil from settling after sprouts appear. Packing also creates the conditions for optimal soil warming, which contributes to the simultaneous appearance of sprouts, more intense microbiological activity, and the accumulation of nutrients in a soluble form. When done after sowing, packing promotes contact between the seeds and the soil and a simultaneous appearance of sprouts. Soil packing is followed by light harrowing to prevent evaporation of moisture from the soil surface.

Packing is also used to settle down winter crops and grasses that have heaved after bad wintering and before plowing under green manure to ensure better incorporation of the material. The choice of type of roller depends on the purpose of packing and soil and climatic conditions.