The effect of C 360 tractor traffic over the soil in the third year of alfalfa (Medicago varia Martin) cultivation

Abstract Passes of tractors and agricultural machines during the growing season take place not only over the loose soils but also over the untilled soils in the cultivation of perennial plants. The aim of the investigation, carried out at a depth of 0–30 cm on two soils (Orthic Luvisol developed from loess and Calcic Cambisol developed from chalk formations) was to determine the effect of one pass of a C 360 tractor of 2700 kg over the soil in the third year of alfalfa ( Medicago varia Martin) cultivation. The soil physical properties, e.g. bulk density, total porosity, air capacity and air permeability and morphological characteristics were evaluated. The passage of a tractor 3 t in weight did not cause any significant changes in the structure or air-water properties of the soils.