Integrated Application of Phosphogypsum and Nano-Silica on Enhancing Soil Properties and Crop Productivity in Saline-Sodic Clay Soils | ||
| Journal of Soil Sciences and Agricultural Engineering | ||
| Articles in Press, Corrected Proof, Available Online from 15 September 2025 PDF (509.23 K) | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/jssae.2025.393381.1299 | ||
| Authors | ||
| Asmaa F.M. Badawy1; Sara A. El-Shabasy2; T. H. Khalifa* 2 | ||
| 1Soil Improvement and Conservation Research Department, Soils, Water and Environment Research Institute (SWERI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt | ||
| 2Soil Chemistry and Physics Research Department, Soils, Water, and Environment Research Institute (SWERI), Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Soil salinity and sodicity are among the primary constraints to agricultural productivity in Egypt. A study was conducted to evaluate the impact of phosphogypsum (PG; 4.13 tons/fed) and nano-silica foliar sprays (at concentrations of S1:100 and S2: 200 mg/L) on soil properties, nutrient dynamics, and the performance of wheat and maize grown in saline-sodic clay soils. The treatments included individual applications of PG and nano-silica (S1 and S2), as well as their combined use. The combination of PG and S2 resulted in significant improvements: the exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP%) decreased by 12.6%, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) fell by 14.3%, and soil electrical conductivity (EC) was reduced by up to 22.5% compared to untreated plots (control). Additionally, this treatment lowered bulk density (BD) by 2.9%, and increased total porosity (TP), indicating enhanced soil structure. Nutrient availability, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, was enhanced, supporting healthier plant growth. Yield outcomes were also promising, with grain production rising by 27.2% in wheat and 43.3% in maize, alongside significant gains in plant height, biomass, and 1000-grain weight. The K/Na ratio in both straw and grain improved, reducing sodium stress and increasing crop resilience. Overall, the combined application of PG and nano-silica proved more effective than their separate use, suggesting this integrated approach as a viable strategy for improving saline-sodic soils and supporting sustainable agriculture. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Saline-Sodic Soil; Phosphogypsum; Nano-Silica; Foliar Spray; Wheat and maize yield | ||
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