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Response of Sodic Soils to Gypsum and Calcium Chloride Application¹

ABSTRACT

Gypsum added to a sodic soil can initiate changes due to both electrolyte concentration and cation exchange effects. The relative significance of the electrolyte effect was estimated by comparing the effects of gypsum and calcium chloride (CaCl₂), in equivalent amounts, on the hydraulic conductivity of three soils from Israel. Whereas the exchange reclamation was similar with both amendments, there was a long-term electrolyte effect in the gypsum treatment. The long-term electrolyte effect of gypsum was very important for a chemically stable soil which did not release salt into the soil solution, and high hydraulic conductivity was maintained. For a corresponding CaCl₂ treatment, complete sealing of the soil took place. Conversely, the efficiency of the two amendments was similar for a calcareous soil. This soil, even without gypsum, released enough electrolytes into the soil solution to prevent clay dispersion and hydraulic conductivity losses. The ability of gypsum to maintain a moderate concentration of electrolytes in the soil solution is very important in preventing crust formation or soil sealing under rainfall conditions.

Key Words: clay dispersion • CaCO₃ • reclamation

¹ Contribution from the Inst. of Soils and Water, ARO, The Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, Israel. No. 300-E, 1980 series.

² Soil Scientists, Division of Soil Physical Chemistry.

Received for publication December 8, 1980. Accepted for publication July 27, 1981.