Reclamation of Saline–Sodic Soils with Combined Amendments: Impact on Quinoa Performance and Biological Soil Quality

Alcívar., M, Zurita-Silva A, Sandoval M., Muñoz C, and Schoebitz M

Keywords: soil, sodic

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the individual and synergic effects of the application of Biochar (B), Humic Substances (HS), and Gypsum (G) on the soil properties of a saline–sodic soil, and plant growth and seed quality (polyphenols, protein and yield) of quinoa. Treatments included (B) 22 t ha−1, (HS) 5 kg ha−1, and (G) 47.7 t ha−1. Two quinoa genotypes from Arid Zones (AZ-51 and AZ-103) were selected and established in eight treatments. The B + HS + G combined treatment resulted in increases in root biomass of 206% and 176% in AZ-51 and AZ-103, respectively. Furthermore, electrical conductivity (ECe), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) decreased significantly in all treated soils. When compared to the control, ESP decreased 11-fold in the G treatment, and 9–13-fold in the B + G; B + HS; and B + HS + G treatments. Similarly, soil microbial biomass increased 112% and 322% in the B + HS + G treatment in AZ-51 and AZ-103 genotypes, respectively. Therefore, it can be concluded that the application of combined amendments (B + HS + G) represents an alternative for reclaiming degraded soils, including saline–sodic soils.

Más información

Título de la Revista: SUSTAINABILITY
Volumen: 10(9):3083
Editorial: MDPI
Fecha de publicación: 2018
Página de inicio: 1
Página final: 12
Idioma: ingles
DOI:

WOS Core Collection ISI

Notas: WOS Core Collection ISI