Which soaks up more water: Damp grass and soil or parched grass and soil?
In a demonstration filmed in the University of Reading’s Harris Garden in England, Dr. Rob Thompson places three full cups of water onto three different sections of grass and soil: Dry grass after a heat wave, grass after “normal” summer conditions, and watered grass.
“It demonstrates the problem that parched soil struggles to soak in water. Shows clearly why heavy rain after a drought might lead to flash flooding.
“Damp grass takes 9s, moist grass (more like normal in summer) 52s, parched grass (most this year) looked likely to take at least 15 minutes… but I got bored.”
Watch these related videos next:
• Erosion demonstration: Comparing grass, dead leaves, and soil
• Why are beavers and their super wild, messy wetlands essential?
• Why are peatlands so important?
• Tolou Keurs, Senegal’s drought-resistant circular gardens
• Hopi Dryland Farming: Growing corn with rainfall in the desert
Bonus: How are scientists harvesting water from thin air?
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