Editorial, J Soil Sci Plant Health Vol: 7 Issue: 4

Soil Salinity Stress Mitigation: Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture

Dr. Noor Al-Hassan^*

Department of Crop Science, Gulf Research University, UAE

*Corresponding Author:

Dr. Noor Al-Hassan
Department of Crop Science, Gulf Research University, UAE
E-mail: n.alhassan@gru.ae

Received: 01-Jun-2025, Manuscript No. JSPH-25-183602; Editor assigned: 4-Jun-2025, Pre-QC No. JSPH-25-183602 (PQ); Reviewed: 18-Jun-2025, QC No. JSPH-25-183602; Revised: 25-Jun-2025, Manuscript No. JSPH-25- 183602 (R); Published: 30-Jun-2025, DOI: 10.4172/jsph.1000236

Citation: Noor A (2025) Soil Salinity Stress Mitigation: Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture. J Soil Sci Plant Health 7: 236

Introduction

Soil salinity is a critical challenge in agriculture, affecting more than 20% of irrigated lands globally. High salt concentrations in the soil reduce water availability, disrupt nutrient uptake, and impair plant growth, ultimately leading to significant yield losses. The problem is exacerbated by climate change, poor irrigation practices, and inadequate drainage systems. Mitigating soil salinity stress is essential to maintain soil health, ensure sustainable crop production, and enhance food security. Effective mitigation strategies combine physical, chemical, biological, and management approaches tailored to soil type, crop species, and local environmental conditions [1,2].

Discussion

Physical methods form the first line of defense against soil salinity. Leaching involves applying excess irrigation water to flush salts below the root zone, while proper drainage systems prevent salt accumulation at the soil surface. Techniques such as raised bed planting, contour farming, and subsurface drainage improve water distribution and reduce salt stress in the root zone. Soil texture also plays a key role; sandy soils require more frequent irrigation, while clayey soils need careful management to prevent waterlogging [3,4].

Chemical amendments are widely used to improve saline and sodic soils. Gypsum (calcium sulfate) is effective in replacing sodium ions with calcium, enhancing soil structure and permeability. Organic amendments like compost, farmyard manure, and biochar improve soil porosity, increase moisture retention, and promote microbial activity, indirectly supporting plant tolerance to salinity. These amendments also help in stabilizing soil aggregates and enhancing nutrient availability.

Biological approaches include the use of salt-tolerant crops and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Halophytes and genetically improved crop varieties can survive and produce yields under saline conditions. PGPRs enhance nutrient uptake, produce osmolytes, and activate plant antioxidant systems, improving resilience to salt stress. Mycorrhizal fungi further support water and nutrient absorption, mitigating the adverse effects of salinity [5].

Integrated management strategies, combining physical, chemical, and biological measures, are most effective. Crop rotation with salt-tolerant species, optimized fertilization, soil amendments, and efficient irrigation practices collectively reduce salt accumulation and maintain productivity. Continuous monitoring of soil salinity using electrical conductivity (EC) and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) allows timely interventions, minimizing the negative impact on crops.

Conclusion

Soil salinity stress poses a serious threat to agricultural sustainability and productivity. Implementing integrated mitigation strategies that combine proper drainage, chemical and organic amendments, salt-tolerant crops, and biological interventions can effectively reduce salt stress and enhance soil health. Adoption of these practices ensures stable crop yields, improves resilience to environmental stress, and promotes sustainable agriculture in salt-affected areas. Careful monitoring, research, and extension support are key to achieving long-term success in salinity management.

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