Pulverisation and moisture retention

1215. Pulverisation of the surface of soils serves to retain moisture in the substratum, and to prevent it from being penetrated by heat from a warmer, as well as from radiating its heat to a colder, atmosphere than itself. The effect is produced by the porosity of the pulverised stratum, which may be compared to a mulching of dry loose sand. The operation is of great importance in horticulture.