Strongly saline soils are inhospitable to plant and animal life.
Soil salinity is a measurement of the salt content within soil. Generally, soils with more salt are inhospitable to plants because they dehydrate plants' cells. The amount of electrical conductivity of saturated soil classifies soil salinity, according to the National Resource Conservation Service. Soil samples are saturated with water, and an electric current is passed through the soil. The amount of electric charge that passes through the soil is then measured, and a soil salinity level is assigned to the test sample.
Non-Saline Soil
Non-saline soil has an electrical current of less than 2 deciSiemens/meter (dSm), according to B.D. Seelig, a North Dakota State University soil scientist. Non-saline soils do not pass a significant amount of electricity and thus do not contain high levels of soil salinity. Non-saline soil typically has no plant-growth restrictions.
Very Slightly Saline Soil
Very slightly saline soil has an electrical current of 2-4 dSm, according to the NCRS. This slight soil salinity passes a small electrical charge. Very slightly saline soil will have only a few plant-growth limitations. Many plants will tolerate a very slightly saline soil.
Slightly Saline Soil
Slightly saline soil passes a 4-8 dSm electrical current, reports the NCRS. Several desert plants prefer this soil, but many trees and shrubs will not tolerate slightly saline soils. Most desert soil is slightly to moderately saline. Slightly saline soil is amendable for farming, but amendments are expensive and difficult.
Moderately Saline Soil
Moderately saline soil electric current ratings are 8-16 dSm, states the NCRS. Some desert plants will grow in moderately saline soil; however, most trees and shrubs will not tolerate moderately saline soils. Moderately saline soil is difficult to amend for farming purposes.
Strongly Saline Soil
Strongly saline soil passes greater than 16 dSm electrical currents, reports Seelig. Strongly saline soil halts most every plant and animal species on the planet. Strongly saline soils typically look inhospitable to life and are nearly impossible to use for most purposes.
Related posts
Soil is important for plants because their roots absorb from soil the water and nutrients necessary for proper plant growth and flower and fruit development. The necessary nutrients vary by plant,...
The condition of the soil in lawns and landscaping determines how well the plants and grass will thrive. Factors such as soil porosity, pH, nutrient levels and amount of air throughout the soil pl...
Proper soil drainage is a key element of successful gardening. Inadequate drainage or waterlogged conditions result in a variety of gardening problems, such as pests and disease. Testing your soil...
Soil conditioners can help prevent clay from cracking.Fertilizers and soil conditioners are called soil amendments because they change the structure of the soil. Fertilizer adds nutrients to the s...
Clay soil must be amended before you plant a garden.Plants grow best in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils. These soils, when well-supplied with organic matter, are easily cultivated and prod...
