If You’re Thinking Tires, Think BIG

The study proves the importance of reducing soil compaction as much as possible. The study found that compacted fields yield 10 to 20 percent less because soil moisture and air available to roots is reduced. Infiltration is limited, reducing water recharge to lower depths. Yield reductions in compacted soil are caused by changes in soil bulk density, soil strength, porosity, and hydraulic conductivity.

The right tire can greatly reduce soil compaction and its negative affects on your yield. On larger equipment, engineers recommend radials with a 20 percent larger footprint than standard profile tires. A larger footprint decreases ground surface pressure and reduces wheel slip by lengthening and spreading out the wheel print. Traction and fuel economy also improve.

It is especially important not to let the task of checking tire pressure fall off your to-do list during busy seasons. Checking tires for proper inflation once a week will improve traction, reduce fuel consumption and reduce wear, but will result in less soil compaction and ultimately, higher yields.