Model of Soil Salinity Effects on Crop Growth

Abstract

The model considers properties of the soil, water, plant, and atmospheric system to predict relative crop yield. Crop yield predictions assume a direct relation between dry matter production and transpiration. The only salinity effects considered are osmotic potential. The influence of initial soil salinity on crop growth depended upon the crop type and irrigation management. Predictions made of salt buildup over several years show that some water management systems would produce high yields for several years before salt buildup would decrease yields. Predictions show that the influence of irrigation system uniformity on salinity buildup and yield reduction is very important.