Science · Soils
Saline & Sodic Soils
Soils with excess soluble salts (saline) or sodium (sodic) that limit water uptake and destroy structure.
Soil condition
Profile
- Saline threshold
- ECe above ~4 dS/m
- Sodic threshold
- ESP above ~15%
- Common causes
- Recycled water, arid climates, poor drainage
- Remedies
- Leaching, gypsum, drainage
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Varies by texture
- Salinity tolerance
- High — the defining problem
- Drought tolerance
- Effective drought even when wet
Leaching fractions must push salts below the roots.
Problems to watch
- Salt burn
- Sodium dispersion
- Crusting
Stress signs
- White crusts
- Leaf tip burn
- Patchy thinning
Where you'll find it
- Coastal courses
- Recycled-water sites
- Arid agriculture
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.