Infiltration is the movement of moisture from the atmosphere into and through the soil surface. Percolation is the downward movement of water through the soil profile. However, you can influence infiltration rates by managing vegetation. The form and pattern of vegetation for any site can be managed to give water the maximum opportunity to penetrate the surface where it falls. This minimizes the over the overland flow that causes erosion.
Some moisture is captured in the foliage of trees and shrubs.
Healthy vegetative cover with its accompanying root mass can keep soil more permeable so moisture readily percolates into the soil profile for storage. Water often follows abandoned root channels as well as live roots, which may penetrate compacted soil layers or deeper horizons. Percolation also is aided by activity from burrowing animals, insects, and earthworms. Storage of Water in Soil Once water permeates into the soil, it's stored between soil particles in the soil profile. Management practices can significantly affect storage capacity on any particular site.