How Does Salt Get Into the Soil?

The amount of salt in a soil is commonly referred to as soil salinity. Although some salt in soils is a natural occurrence, excessive salinity has a variety of damaging effects and may require additional control.

Causes

Salt enters soils through a variety of means. Some soils are naturally higher in salinity than others, due to minerals and fossils in the soil. Inadequate watering may also cause high levels of salinity. Watering plants with soft water will also increase soil salinity, since soft water contains high amounts of sodium.

Problems

Problems that are commonly associated with excessive salinity include reduced growth and inadequate nutrient uptake, which can also be related to inadequate levels of salinity. Plants may start to wilt or plant leaves may appear damaged.

Control

To control salt levels in soil, be sure to always provide adequate water for plants. Monitoring soil fertility and applying organic matter may help improve drainage and reduce the potentially negative effects of salinity. Avoid watering plants with soft water to avoid salt buildup.

References

• University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service: Soil Salnity, Salt Tolerance, and Growth Potential of Horticultural and Landscape Plants
• Colorado State University Extension: Managing Saline Soils
• North Carolina State University Extension: Watering Houseplants