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Pre-Plant Soil Testing for Salinity
A separate soil sample should be collected at the same time the nematode and fertility samples are taken. The sampling locations can be the same, but the sampling depth should be 1-2 inches. Specify that the lab run a saturated paste extract soil test for electrical conductivity (EC). Also, specify an Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) test.
Salinity: If surface (seeding depth) EC is above 1.5 dS/m consider seeking professional advice. Stand establishment and yield reductions will occur at the rate of approximately 14% yield reduction per 1 dS/m of EC over 1.5 dS/m.
Exchangeable Sodium Percentage: If ESP is 8% or higher, DO NOT PLANT without professional advice.
- Managing Saline Soils - *Available only in print. Click here to order
- Salinity and Sodicity (PDF version), NDSU Extension Service
Last Modified: Apr 11, 2006 at 13:40
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