The effect of ground water-level on the yield of some common crops on a fen peat soil

Abstract

An account is given of a field experiment in the control of ground water-level in a Fen peat soil, together with its results on the yields of crops in a six-course rotation. The seasonal variations in rainfall are presented in terms of potential evaporation and soil moisture deficit. The effect of the water-level on the moistness of the soil above it is indicated. Even in a wet summer, drying was perceptible within 18–20 in. of the ground water-level between successive falls of rain. The fluctuations of the ground water-levels are discussed. Those of the high water-levels were chiefly due to individual incidences of rain causing rises short in duration, but sufficient in the case of water-levels within 20 in. of the surface to cause total waterlogging and surface ponding. Those of the deep water-levels were most influenced by evaporation, with steady and persistent falls during any rain-free period. The deterioration of the physical condition of the soil over high water-levels is shown in the result of sieving tests. In 6 years the loss of tilth over waterlevels within 20 in. of the surface was very marked and was discernible over those as low as 30 in. The possibilities of effectively using high ground water-levels occasionally in soils in good condition are shown by the results with celery and potatoes.