Sodic soils often can be reclaimed by replacing soil sodium with calcium by adding a calcium-based soil amendment. Sodic soils respond to continued use of good irrigation water, good irrigation methods and good cropping practices. Periodic soil testing and treatment, combined with proper management procedures, can improve the conditions in salt-affected soils that contribute to poor plant growth. Types of Soils Saline soils contain large amounts of water-soluble salts that inhibit seed germination and plant growth. The salts are white, chemically neutral and include the chlorides, sulfates and sometimes nitrates of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium.
Sodic soils are high in exchangeable sodium.
Desirable cations in the soil include calcium, magnesium, potassium and ammonium. These cations readily interchange with one another. However, sodium also can occur in soils and replace desirable cations. Sodic soils are hard and cloddy when dry and tend to crust. Water intake usually is poor, especially in soils high in silt and clay.