Leaching Potential of Some Omani Soils: Soil Column and Drip Irrigation Studies

Abstract

This paper reports the findings from leaching experiments conducted on some Omani soils. Seven samples from two locations in the Batinah coastal area of Oman were analyzed. Repacked soil columns of up to 30 cm in length were used in laboratory experiments to estimate the amount of water required for adequate leaching of salts from the soil profile. Two methods of leaching: continuous ponding and intermittent ponding were investigated. Results show that most of the salt (50-90%) is removed from the soil profile by the application of water equal in amount to the depth of soil to be leached. The results also show that intermittent ponding method of leaching is more efficient than the continuous ponding method of leaching if initial salinity level is high. Soil samples were also collected to find out the salinity status under drip irrigation. It clearly demonstrates that drip irrigation is very effective in removing salts from soil near the emitters although there is a marked accumulation of salts on the soil surface between emitters.