Deep ripping: Correcting layers of high soil strength with deep tillage – Northern region (Factsheet)
This Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) factsheet ( first published 2022, reviewed 2025) explains how deep ripping can address soil compaction in the poorly structured subsoil layers in northern Australian grain cropping systems with summer rainfall. Compacted layers have higher soil strength when dry and poorer aeration when moist, leading to waterlogging. Deep ripping can place topsoil deeper in the profile, incorporate ameliorants and fertilisers into the subsoil, and lift subsoil clay to the surface to help manage water-repellent sands. Yield responses are generally greatest on deep sandy soils and smaller on heavier-textured soils. Other constraints such as water repellence, soil acidity and sodicity commonly co-occur and can limit deep ripping benefits. The full yield response and return on investment in deep ripping will not be realised unless these other constraints to production are ameliorated. The factsheet outlines key considerations, including investigating the soil profile and soil types, ripping depth, machinery choice and the erosion risk from reduced stubble cover. Precision agriculture and spatial targeting of deep ripping zones is recommended to reduce the risk of re-compaction [PDF 2.5 MB, 8 pages].#
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