frost heave
noun [mass noun]
1The uplift of soil or other surface deposits due to expansion of groundwater on freezing.The saturated wetland deposits are susceptible to frost heave and subsequent damage to structures....
- In areas subject to freeze - thaw activity, frost heave will create a similar effect.
- A loose covering of coarse straw will help prevent frost heave during the winter.
1.1 [count noun] A mound formed by frost heave.Sidewalks from busier times had been torn asunder by roots and frost heaves, and none of the 20 buildings along its few tree-lined streets seemed to be occupied....
- He watched the yellow and white signs screaming at him to slow down, for frost heaves awaited ahead, and they were surely as large as speed bumps that could very well force the automobile to become air born.
- But this was, in fact, useless, because with all the pot holes and frost heaves it was impossible.
Derivatives
frost heaving
- To retain soil moisture and prevent root damage from frost heaving, maintain a 3-to 4-inch layer of mulch under shrubs and newly-set trees.
- Seeds germinate in May, but seedlings are not very drought-resistant; insufficient moisture and frost heaving are the primary sources of seedling mortality.
- A light application of mulch after the ground freezes will help prevent frost heaving throughout the winter.