Combined Impact of Natural and Synthitic Conditionrs on El-Arish Sandy Soil Properties and Productivity

Abstract

Completely randomized field experiments were conducted at El-Arish Agricultural Research Station, North Sinai, during the winter season of 2005/2006 and the summer one of 2006. The effect of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) combined with local bentonite in the ratio of 1:20 (w/w), was studied on soil chemical and hydrophysical characteristics and some morphological growth parameters as well as the yield production of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) and corn (Zea maiza) grown under drip irrigation system and natural drainage conditions. Soil conditioner was applied in the rate of 0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 ton/fed.Obtained results reveal that soil chemical properties, i.e., EC, pH, soluble cations and anions as well as SAR values are directly affected by increasing conditioner application rate. Modification in soil textural class from sandy to sandy loam was existed with the increase in clay content. Bulk density, macro-pores and saturated hydraulic conductivity values were markedly decreased, while the values of total porosity, water holding capacity, field capacity and available moisture were progressively increased. The greatest improvement in these soil characteristics is pronounced under the highest rate of conditioner doses. Moreover, growth parameters of the two crops as well as their seed yields were beneficially increased with increasing the rate of applied conditioner. This reveals to the highly magnitude of combining synthesized and natural conditioners in a proper amount to improve El-Arish sandy soils properties and enhancing their productivity.