Initial field observations revealed a shallow corn (Zea mays L.) root
system on a Zimmerman fine sand in a corn/soybean (Glycine max L.) rot
ation. Since toot distribution influences crop water and nutrient abso
rption, it is essential to identify factors limiting root growth. The
objective of this study was to determine the factor(s) limiting corn r
ooting depth on an irrigated fine sand soil. Bulk density, saturated h
ydraulic conductivity, and soil water retention were measured on undis
turbed soil cores. Corn root distribution assessed at tasseling over a
3-yr period showed an average of 94% of total. root length within the
upper 0.60 m of soil with 85% in the upper 0.30 m of soil. Mechanical
impedance was estimated with a cone penetrometer on two dates with di
ffering water contents. Cone penetrometer measurements greater than 3
MPa indicated mechanical impedance in soil layers extending from 0.15
to 0.35 m deep. Penetration resistance decreased as soil water content
increased. However, soil water contents greater than field capacity w
ere required to decrease penetration resistance below the 3 MPa thresh
old. Such water saturated conditions only occurred for short periods i
mmediately after precipitation or irrigation events, thus roots usuall
y encountered restrictive soil strengths. The soil layer from 0.15 to
0.60 m had high bulk density, 1.57 Mg m(-3). This compacted soil layer
, with slower saturated hydraulic conductivities (121 to 138 mm hr(-1)
), held more water than the soil above or below it and reduced water m
ovement through the soil profile. Crop water use occurred to a depth o
f approximately 0.75 m. In conclusion, a compacted soil layer confined
roots almost entirely to the top 0.60 m of soil because it had high s
oil strength and bulk density. The compacted layer, in turn, retained
more water for crop use.