Sodic soils are formed when sodium ions are relatively higher than the other cations, impacting the soil structure. The amount of sodium in the soil is the key measure of sodicity and is referred to as the Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP). Sodicity in soil degrades soil properties by weakening the bond between soil particles.

Soils with high levels of exchangeable sodium (Na) and low levels of total salts are called sodic soils. Sodic soils may impact plant growth by: 1.) Specific toxicity to sodium sensitive plants; 2.) Nutrient deficiencies or imbalances; 3.) High pH; and 4.) Dispersion of soil particles that causes poor physical condition of the soil.

It explains how soil salinity is measured and presents innovative strategies for preventing and mitigating soil salinity through management and addition of organic material. The presence of excess salts in the ground is a far-reaching and expanding threat to agriculture across the globe.

Sodic soils (Alkali soils) are characterized with high concentration of sodium ions (sodium salts) adsorbed on the soil exchange complex (clay particles) of the soil. Sodium saturation of clay particles causes dispersion of soil particles resulting damage/poor of soil structure that results an increase in the compactness of soil, decrease in ...

Excess sodium can destroy soil structure and slow water infiltration, as shown in a sodic soil crust. Salt accumulation in soil can reduce crop yields and irrigation effectiveness, and affect soil structure and other soil properties.

Sodic soils are low in total salts but high in exchangeable sodium. The combination of high levels of sodium and low total salts tends to dis-perse soil particles, making sodic soils of poor tilth. These soils are sticky when wet, nearly impermeable to water and have a slick look. As they dry, they become hard, cloddy and crusty.

The chief characteristic of sodic soils from the agricultural stand point is that they contain sufficient exchangeable sodium to adversely affect the growth of most crop plants. For the purpose of definition, sodic soils are those which have an exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) of …

In agricultural soils and irrigation water, salts are typically described in two ways: Sodicity, or the concentration of sodium relative to other cations (positively charged atoms or compounds).

If you are able to lower the salinity level (less than 3 mmho/cm) then consider management options for sodic soils. If applying any kind of soil amendments – keep an eye on your soluble salt levels over time.

Soil sodicity is the accumulation of sodium salt relative to other types of salt cations, especially calcium. An increase in soil pH and decreases in calcium and magnesium usually accompany this process. Sodic soils are characterized by a poor soil structure and low infiltration rate, are poorly aerated and are difficult to cultivate.