Soil crusting in Western Samoa. Part I - Some examples of crusting and methods of control

Abstract

The problems and effects of soil crusting in Western Samoa are discussed. Illustrations of typical crust features include the glazed or 'frosted' surface of certain crusts, and dispersion mosaics. Surface mulches and fine wire mesh frames were investigated as control measures to dissipate the considerable kinetic energy of falling raindrops before they reach the soil surface. Soil crusting was much reduced by these control methods. Mulching increased the germination percentage of dwarf beans, and frames the germinating percentage of lettuce and cabbage over untreated plots; the yield of dwarf beans was increased by 80 per cent using a mulch of coconut fronds.