What can soil compaction primarily lead to for plant roots?

Soil compaction primarily leads to a lack of air access for plant roots. When soil becomes compacted, the air spaces between soil particles are reduced. This depletion of porosity restricts the amount of oxygen that can reach the root system, which is essential for root respiration and overall plant health. Roots require sufficient oxygen to grow effectively and take up water and nutrients from the soil. When plants are unable to access adequate oxygen, their root development can be stunted, leading to poor plant growth and resilience.

In contrast, increased water uptake and improved nutrient absorption are typically hindered by compaction, as the compacted soil structure can impede the permeability and availability of water and nutrients to the roots. Additionally, while soil compaction can impact many aspects of plant health, it does not directly reduce pest resistance; rather, healthy, well-aerated root systems contribute to a plant's overall vigor and ability to resist pests and diseases.