FEATURESTORY
by Bill Baugh
4 Solutions to Farming in High Salinity Soils
Salinity is the measure of the total amount of
soluble salt in the soil. As the amount of salt increases,
it becomes more difficult for the plant to extract the
water out of the soil. Saline soil in farms and gardens is
becoming a worldwide problem. High concentrations
of salt impact crops in a number of ways, from a reduc-
tion in yield all of the way to total crop failure.
According to a United Nations report soil salinity is
such a problem that the UN…
… estimates that 2,000 hectares of farmland (nearly
8 square miles) of farmland is ruined daily by salt deg-
radation. So far, nearly 20 percent of the world’s farm-
land has been degraded, an area approximately the size
of France.
There are 4 common solutions to farming in high
salinity soils. While there are other methods used, the
methods discussed in this article are the most common
and generally the most successful.
ultimate control
in temperature
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DesigneDD for large facilities an
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those who want the very best.
Select and Plant Salt Tolerant Crops
Plants widely vary in their salt tolerance. One
method to control saline soils is to plant crops that
have a high salt tolerance. Crops selection varies greatly
by climate so check with your local farm extension bu-
reau to determine the appropriate crops in your area.
Use Biofertilizers containing Bacillus subtilis
GB0 3
Biofertilizers are living microorganisms that are
used to help plants grow more efficiently. They are
used in agriculture, farming and gardening to improve
crop performance and take advantage of microbe plant
interactions. These interactions are synergistic. In other
words, they are beneficial for both the plant and the
microorganism.
One beneficial microorganism that is used for high
salinity soils is Bacillus subtilis GB03. This particular
microorganism is a bacteria that has been found in soils
with a high salt concentration. B. subtilis GB03 have
been shown to promote growth promotion and reduce
some types of plant stress. This bacterium is also help-
ful for the plant in seed germination. Additionally, it
has proved valuable in both drought and salt tolerance.
Applying Chemical Treatments
Applying chemical treatments is another way to
treat high salinity soils. However, this method can be
time consuming and expensive. It is best to consult
with an expert before trying to chemically treat your
soils to reduce problems with saline soils.
For many soils, some type of combination of the
above methods may be the best option. GG
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Improving Drainage and Leaching
First, if adequate water sources and good drain-
age are available, the soils can be washed (leached) to
remove the excess salt. Drainage is an absolute must,
because the water must move through soil and not just
run off the surface.
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VIEW ONLINE //
Bill Baugh is a product manager for Custom Biologicals, Inc. a
manufacturer and distributor of innovative microbial products. You
can visit their website at Living-Soils.com and he can be contacted at
561.797.3008 or [email protected].
Living-Soils.com
call toll free: (877) 728-0757 or visit us online at www.excelair.ca
38
www.GardenandGreenhouse.net
August 2017