What is subsurface drainage used for?

Subsurface drainage serves the primary function of removing excess water from the soil, which helps prevent waterlogging. Waterlogged soil can lead to various issues such as reduced oxygen availability for plant roots, and poor soil structure, which can ultimately hinder plant growth and agricultural productivity. By effectively managing the water table and promoting good drainage, subsurface drainage helps maintain optimal soil moisture levels for crop growth.

The other options address different soil and agricultural considerations, but they do not accurately describe the main purpose of subsurface drainage. Collecting and storing nutrients for plants is not a function of subsurface drainage; instead, it is related to practices like cover cropping or nutrient management. Enhancing soil aeration and improving root growth can be an indirect benefit of proper drainage, but it is not the direct purpose of subsurface systems. Similarly, increasing soil temperature is more closely related to practices like incorporating organic matter or using plastic mulch rather than subsurface drainage.