Toolbox Talks - ARCHIVE: Defra
Toolbox Talks - ARCHIVE: Defra
Toolbox Talks - ARCHIVE: Defra
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TOOLBOX TALK 9<br />
SOIL AFTERCARE<br />
WHAT?<br />
Even if soils are handled carefully there can be<br />
damage to their structure that is not repaired by initial<br />
cultivation after spreading.<br />
Structurally-weakened soils tend to settle and selfcompact<br />
after placement, consequently suffering<br />
from waterlogging and anaerobism (oxygendeficiency).<br />
Even in uncompacted situations it can take between<br />
1 and 3 years for the soil structure to stabilise and<br />
provide the necessary drainage and aeration for plant<br />
roots and the soil’s fauna and flora to function<br />
properly.<br />
WHY?<br />
‣ Avoid environmental harm: Compact, degraded, soils increase the risk of ponding and flooding.<br />
‣ Improve marketability of the site: Waterlogging and anaerobism are the most common soil-related<br />
causes for plant failure on landscaping schemes, detracting from the appearance of a site.<br />
‣ Reduce costs: Failed landscaping schemes can be expensive to remedy.<br />
DO<br />
DON’T<br />
Ensure that soil health as well as plant health<br />
is closely monitored during the aftercare<br />
period.<br />
Correct deficiencies as soon as they are<br />
detected.<br />
X<br />
X<br />
Rely on aftercare as an alternative to good<br />
soil management – careful soil handling,<br />
storage and placement will save on<br />
aftercare costs and result in long-term<br />
benefits to the development.<br />
Assume that soils will function adequately<br />
immediately after planting.<br />
10
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