FAST FACTS
High soil and water salinity negatively affects production and the soil.
In deep soil, salts can be leached to lower concentrations with water.
Drip irrigation can help reduce the effect of saline water on production.
High water salinity is one of the greatest constraints in crop production. It causes a build-up of salts in the root zone which, in turn, can reduce yield and even result in crop failure, depending on the plants’ sensitivity.
Chris Malan, agronomy manager at Netafim, explains that excess salinity in the root zone negatively affects water uptake of a plant by increasing the osmotic strength of the soil solution. Plants, in effect, have to work harder to absorb water, leaving them with less energy to grow and produce fruit.
Sodium and chlorine are two elements commonly associated with salinity. A high chloride level may cause toxicity, scorching the roots and leaves, whereas excessive sodium damages the soil structure by binding with clay particles. Sodium not only inhibits uptake of other nutrients, but also results in poor water infiltration, surface crusting and reduced hydraulic conductivity, according to Malan.
MANAGING SALINITY AND IRRIGATION
To manage salinity, a farmer first needs to have his or her soil and water analysed to identify the cause of the salinity and the extent of the problem. High sodium and chloride levels are the biggest concerns in South Africa.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.