Effect of subsoil tillage in the previous crop year on soil loosening and potato yield performance

Soil compaction under potato rotations can be a common problem in Prince Ed ward Island. This can be further aggravated by naturally occurring compact subsoils. A study was conducted at eight sites on sandy loam soils in three regions of Prince Edward Island to determine whether the recommended pract ice of subsoiling the fall prior to the potato crop would improve the physi cal condition of the soil and result in improved yields. The study found th at subsoiling provided only a marginal improvement in soil physical conditi ons. Soil loosening did not increase potato yield or quality.