Soil salinization in agricultural areas of the Caribbean region and agroecological recovery strategies. Review

Abstract

Introduction: In Colombia, 45% of the continental and insular surface presents some degree of susceptibility or propensity to soil degradation due to salinization. The high concentration of salts negatively affects the biologicals of the soil, causing a decrease in crop productivity.

Objective: The bibliographic information available on the factors associated with the salinization of soils in agricultural areas of the Caribbean region and different strategies for the recovery of saline soils was reviewed.

Method: A literature review was carried out in which the biophysical and anthropic factors of the salinization of soils and the associated consequences are documented. Additionally, a review was made of international and national scientific articles that address different strategies for the recovery of saline soils in which it was analyzed which ones have been more successful from the environmental point of view.

Results:  The salinity of the soils was related to the climatic conditions, irrigation with poor quality water, chemical fertilization, the scarce use of vegetal covers and the low contents of organic matter in the soils. Soil washing is a viable alternative if good quality water is available. The most feasible alternative was the use of organic fertilizers

Conclusions: The salinity of the soils was related to the use of irrigation water with high saline content, little plant cover, low content of organic matter in the soil and the use of fertilizers. The most viable recovery strategy is the application of organic fertilizers and amendments.