The hazard for using irrigation water high in sodium is dependent on both the soil's sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) and the soil and water salinity. As the salt content of the irrigation water increases, the sodicity hazard can also increase. An increased sodicity hazard exists with higher salinity in irrigation water because more sodium ions exist to replace calcium in the soil--leading to more problems such as less soil aggregation, more water ponding (less infiltration), less root penetration (due to compaction of soil) which also leads to less water and nutrient availability to plants.

Browse related FAQs by tag: cotton industry, irrigation