Improved Root Depth & Pasture Resilience Case Study

Summary

Early assessment found poor root structure and compacted soils, with roots growing sideways and creating thatch. After one year using DCT products, average root depth increased from 62mm to 105mm across 10 paddocks — a 43mm increase (over 51% improvement).

The Problem.

Compacted soils restrict root growth, forcing roots to grow sideways and creating thatch. This limits the plant’s ability to access nutrients and water, reduces carbon input to the soil, and decreases microbial activity.

The Result.

After one year, root systems showed deeper and more extensive growth:

Average root depth increased from 62mm to 105mm
Increase of 43mm (over 51%)

Deeper roots allow plants to:

access more nutrients
capture leached nutrients like nitrate
increase carbon storage in soil
improve drought resilience

Why Root Depth Matters.

Roots are central to soil health. They release sugars, organic acids and other compounds into the soil through exudation, which:

supports beneficial microbes (bacteria and fungi)
improves carbon and nutrient cycling
helps protect plants from pathogens

The soil around the roots — the rhizosphere — is where most soil biology activity happens. Improving root depth strengthens this zone, improving overall soil health.

How DCT Products Support Root Development.

DCT products support root growth by improving soil structure and biology:

✔ Improved soil structure
Creates open channels for roots to penetrate more easily.

✔ Enhanced microbial activity
Supports nutrient cycling and availability, stimulating root growth.

✔ Better nutrient uptake
Roots receive the minerals and trace elements needed for healthy development.

✔ Stronger plant vigour
Supports persistent pasture and improved clover establishment.

Benefits of Deeper Roots.

Deeper roots support:

better water access during dry periods
improved nutrient capture and retention
greater carbon storage
more resilient pasture performance

Conclusion.

This case study demonstrates how improving soil structure and biology can significantly increase root depth, leading to stronger, more resilient pasture and improved soil health over time.