Experimental investigation of induced suction distribution in a grass-covered soil

► We quantify the suction induced by grass in relation to grass characteristics. ► Suction induced in grassed soil is nearly two times higher than that in bare soil. ► Grass-induced suction influence zone is up to 4 times the root depth. ► We investigate suction distribution upon wetting under different soil suctions. ► Under wetting, suction retained in grassed soil is higher than that in bare soil.