Phytoremediation of Sodic and Saline‐Sodic Soils

Summary

This review article in Advances in Agronomy examines phytoremediation as a strategy for ameliorating sodic and saline-sodic soils through plant-based approaches. The authors, drawing on established soil and crop science literature from the mid-2000s, likely synthesise evidence on species selection, remediation mechanisms, and agronomic outcomes. Such reviews typically address the economic and practical feasibility of phytoremediation relative to conventional reclamation methods in regions where soil salinity and sodicity constrain agricultural productivity.

Regional applicability

Phytoremediation of saline and sodic soils is most relevant to arid and semi-arid regions; the United Kingdom experiences limited naturally occurring soil sodicity, though salt accumulation can occur in coastal and formerly glaciated lowland areas. The principles and plant selection criteria reviewed may have limited direct application to UK farm management, but the underlying soil-plant chemistry is transferable to intensive horticulture or restoration of contaminated lowland sites.

Key measures

Likely measures include soil electrical conductivity (EC), exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), soil pH, and plant biomass accumulation; may include crop yield data post-remediation.

Outcomes reported

The study likely reviews phytoremediation techniques—the use of plants to ameliorate soil salinity and sodicity—and their effectiveness in restoring soil quality for agricultural production. Specific outcomes would include assessment of plant species suitability, soil chemical changes, and agronomic reclamation potential.

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