The concentration of salts in the ground solution leads to an increase in its osmotic pressure. Thus, the transport of water to the plant may be hindered, which indicates a reduction in the rate of water absorption by the plant. It takes work to reduce its adverse effects on the plant.
The influence of salt on the physiological processes in the plant:
In general, soil salinity affects many elements of plant physiology since it limits its capacity to absorb water as a significant consequence, resulting in a slower growth rate and several metabolic alterations.
The negative impact of salinity may be detected at the whole plant level with its mortality or loss in height, weight, living mass, and production. In addition to impacting seed and seedling development, general vegetative growth, and flower and fruit production, the most visible metabolic alterations include ion management, osmotic stress-reducing building materials, antioxidant enzymes, and plant construction.
Hormones and the modification of the photosynthetic pathway.
Increased salinity can reduce the surface area of growing leaves by reducing the number and dimensions of epidermal cells. Each of these factors contributes to an increase in the degree of freshness of some plants due to an increase in the difference in water stress between the leaves and the surrounding environment.
It was also discovered in certain plants, such as sugar cane, to enhance the quantities of chemicals dissolved in sucrose since the salinity generated by sodium ions lowers the activity of the enzyme responsible for turning it into starch.
To decrease the detrimental effects of salinity on plants, you can take the following actions:
Soil Testing:
Conduct a soil test to determine the salinity level and identify the specific salts. This will help you understand the severity of the problem and guide you in implementing appropriate corrective measures.
Proper Irrigation Management:
Efficient irrigation practices are crucial in minimizing the impact of salinity on plants. Consider the following:
Avoid over-irrigation:
Apply water only when necessary and avoid excessive watering, as it can lead to the accumulation of salts in the root zone.
Use high-quality water:
If possible, use low-salinity water for irrigation. Surface water or rainwater can be better than saline groundwater sources.
Monitor soil moisture:
Monitor soil moisture levels regularly using sensors or manual methods. This will help you determine when to irrigate and avoid water stress or excessive moisture.
Implement irrigation methods that promote leaching: Drip or subsurface drip irrigation can effectively minimize salt buildup. These methods deliver water directly to the root zone, reducing surface evaporation and leaching salts away from it.
Salt-Tolerant Plant Selection: Choose plant species or varieties that are known to be tolerant of saline conditions. These plants have adaptations that allow them to thrive in high-salt environments. Consult with local agricultural experts or nurseries to identify suitable salt-tolerant plants for your specific region and conditions.
Soil Amendments: Certain soil amendments can help reduce the impact of salinity on plants. These include:
Gypsum (calcium sulfate):
Gypsum can help displace sodium ions and improve soil structure. It reduces sodium's harmful effects on plants and enhances water infiltration and drainage.
Organic matter:
Incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil can improve soil structure, fertility, and water-holding capacity. This can help mitigate the detrimental effects of salinity.
Crop Rotation and Cover Crops:
Implementing crop rotation with salt-tolerant plants can help break the cycle of salt accumulation. Certain cover crops, such as barley or saltbush, have the ability to extract salts from the soil and can be used as part of a rotation strategy.
Manage Saline Drainage:
If you have poor drainage or saline groundwater areas, consider installing drainage systems to divert excess salts away from plant roots. This can help prevent salt buildup and reduce the impact on plants.
Regular Monitoring:
Continuously monitor the health and growth of your plants to identify any signs of salt stress. Adjust your management practices accordingly and make necessary changes to mitigate the effects of salinity.
Remember, the severity of salinity and the effectiveness of these measures can vary depending on the specific conditions and plant species involved. It's advisable to seek guidance from local agricultural experts or extension services who can provide tailored advice based on your region and circumstances.
