The effect of irrigation water salinity on the growth and productivity of wheat crops in the southern regions of Iraq and mitigation methods using organic soil amendments

Abstract

This experiment and field studies were conducted in southern Iraq in collaboration with agricultural research centers to solve the problem of salinity's impact on wheat growth and productivity in these areas, as wheat is the country's strategic food basket. Soil and water salinity is a major challenge that threatens the sustainability of the agricultural sector and food security. Therefore, addressing the problem of salinity requires concerted efforts from all parties. Needed immediate response The Ministry of Water Resources and the Ministry of Agriculture have to consider as a top priority implementing the adding value and development programs for the irrigation projects in particular, to minimize these increases of high groundwater levels. Moreover, academic research centers including universities and agriculture colleges should be encouraged to breed new wheat cultivars that are tolerant to salt stress and drought. Research findings should be incorporated into the curricula designed for agriculture as well. Regional and international cooperation with entities such as the FAO, Green Climate Fund is also imperative in preventing climate impacts, for limits water scarcity, in resource governance..

This study examines potential scientific and practical approaches to ameliorate salinity effects with use of organic soil amendments. The findings showed that salts not only induce a decrease in yield but also cause harm to plants chemically and physiologically. Nevertheless, a field experiment carried out in southern and central Iraq has demonstrated that the use of enhancers and ameliorants like humic acid and compost, along with growing salt–tolerant cultivars can significantly enhance wheat production along with increasing crop consumptive water use efficiency.which provides a path towards more sustainable and flexible cultivation.

In sandy loam soils, wheat yield increased by 6% to 12% after adding compost, and in clay loam soils, wheat yield increased by 2% to 9%.