Alkaline lands, their problems, analysis, and treatment methods

Abstract

Soil is the natural cradle for plant growth, and in it its roots extend and go deep, searching for water and food. Plant growth is necessarily affected by the characteristics of the bud and its ability to supply the plant with its various needs for nutrients in the appropriate quantities and at the right time (Kahlid, 1995).

Alkaline soils are defined as the land which the acidity number (ph) rises to high levels and values ​​of up to 8 or 9 degrees. This type of soil is divided into sandy alkaline soils, calcareous alkaline soils, or clay soils. The quality of these soils varies according to the degree of their suitability to the plant. Alkaline sand, as soon as it is watered and washed with water, it becomes ready for planting, and the plant can absorb water and nourishment without any difficulties, land productivity increases as soon as water is available.

Calcareous alkaline soils are those lands in which the percentage of calcium carbonate and calcium bicarbonate is high. This type of soil is accompanied by many problems. These soils are usually red in color and the process of cultivation in them is often expensive due to damage to agricultural tools and equipment. It can be concluded that the Alkaline soils, which are very common in semiarid and arid climates cover more than 25 % of the earth’s surface. These soils are typically highly porous, freely draining and saturated with calcium carbonate. high cost fertilizers must be added to maintain a sustainable agriculture .