An Overview on Soil Salinity: Sources, Characteristics, Agricultural Constraints and Management

Abstract

Soil salinity is one of the most serious environmental constraints limiting agricultural productivity and sustainability, particularly in arid, semi-arid, and coastal regions. The severity of salinization has increased due to climate change, sea-level rise, improper irrigation, poor drainage, and seawater intrusion. Excessive salt accumulation adversely affects soil physical, chemical, and biological properties, leading to osmotic stress, ion toxicity, nutrient imbalance, and reduced water availability for plants. These effects impair seed germination, plant growth, nutrient uptake, physiological processes, and ultimately crop yield. In addition to agriculture, soil salinity threatens freshwater resources, ecosystem stability, human health, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the definition, classification, characteristics, and sources of soil salinity, together with its effects on soil properties, plant growth, agricultural production, and soil fertility. Furthermore, the review highlights integrated management strategies, including improved irrigation and drainage, balanced fertilization, organic amendments, salt-tolerant crop varieties, and sustainable land-use practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of salt-affected regions.