Field test were carried out with the objective of characterizing the state of compaction in horticultural soil induced by traffic, after the development of a cabbage crop (Brassica oleracea L. group capitata) cycle, and its incidence on yield. Measurements of penetration resistance, bulk density, and moisture content in soil were made and aeread biomass at the end of the cycle crop in sectors with larger and smaller number of vehicles passes. Values of penetration resistance of 1.7 and 1.3 MPa were found for treatment with more than 7 passes and 3 passes respectively in the depth range of 0-100 mm. No significant differences were found in bulk density parameter in the entire soil profile. Statistically significant differences were found for aereal biomass values of 3 passes treatment (1902.6 g plant-1), in relation to more than 7 passes (1447.9 g plant-1). Repeated passes on rows resulted in increments of penetration resistance at shallow depths. The number of the tractor and agricultural machinery passes influenced the fresh and dry weight of crop.
soil compaction; penetration resistance; biomass; cabbage
