Waterlog

Waterlog is the condition in which soil or other porous media becomes saturated with water, filling the pore spaces and reducing or eliminating air in the root zone. This reduces oxygen availability to plant roots and can suppress biological activity in the soil.

Waterlogging commonly results from excessive rainfall, over-irrigation, rising water tables, or drainage-impaired soils such as compacted or heavy clay soils. It may occur temporarily after storms or persist in areas with poor natural drainage or urban runoff that collects on the surface.

Effects on plants include hypoxic or anoxic root conditions, inhibited root growth, nutrient deficiencies, and increased susceptibility to disease. Visible symptoms include stunting, yellowing, wilting, and leaf scorch. Microbial processes shift to anaerobic pathways, and soil can develop reduced organic matter breakdown and gas production.

Beyond agriculture, waterlogged soils can weaken foundations, roads, and other structures by reducing bearing capacity and promoting settlement. In horticulture and landscaping, prolonged waterlogging can kill sensitive species unless drainage is improved.

Management focuses on restoring drainage and reducing the duration of saturation. Measures include installing or improving surface and subsurface drains, creating raised beds, adding organic matter to improve soil structure, avoiding late-season irrigation, and selecting tolerant plants. Regular monitoring of soil moisture and rainfall can help prevent waterlogging.