Solon, Ohio – September 15, 2026 -- Locus Agriculture is scaling deployment of Unpac, its glycolipid-based soil conditioner, across row and specialty crop systems after third-party lab testing showed reduced soil density and improved water penetration in California agricultural soils.
USDA data shows compaction affects nearly one-quarter of surveyed cropland
A USDA Economic Research Service analysis found growers identified soil compaction as a resource concern on 22% of surveyed wheat, soybean, oat and cotton fields. Compacted soil restricts root development and limits crop access to available water and nutrients, according to Locus.
Lab testing confirms density reduction and water movement gains
Third-party laboratory testing on soils collected from California's Central Coast and Central Valley found Unpac reduced soil density across a range of moisture levels and improved water penetration through both soil types compared with untreated water. The product uses fermentation-derived glycolipid technology to lower surface tension, helping water spread laterally and penetrate soil micropores at a field application rate of approximately 4 fluid ounces per acre.
Potato programs combining Unpac with microbial technology report 10% to 15% yield gains
In potato production, Unpac is applied in-furrow to loosen the growing medium as roots and tubers develop. Locus field experience with programs pairing Unpac and its microbial technology has shown yield increases ranging from 10% to 15%.
California strawberry growers apply Unpac via drip irrigation under raised beds
Strawberry growers are incorporating Unpac into production systems to address compaction tied to raised-bed construction, applying the product through drip irrigation beneath plastic-covered beds. Locus agronomists reported looser soil conditions allowing more effective root penetration.
"Compaction is more than a soil problem. It's a crop performance problem,