Soil Texture Characteristics in Iraq: A Key to Optimizing Agricultural Sustainability and Land Productivity

Abstract

Background

It's been documented that Iraq houses numerous soil types that exist as an expression of varied climates, landscapes, and land-use patterns. This study focuses on the physical and chemical soil characteristics existing within five of Iraq's major geographical regions: Al-Anbar, Baghdad, Basrah, Erbil, and Diyala.

Materials and Methods

 Analysis showed significant variation in salinity, organic matter content, bulk density, and soil texture from one region to another. For example, Al-Anbar soils are predominantly sandy (82%), with a high bulk density (1.60 g/cm³) and low organic matter (0.6%). On the other hand, clay-rich soils found in Basrah are extremely saline (EC = 8.0 dS/m, ESP = 45%), although bulk density is much lower (1.25 g/cm³).

Results

 Baghdad and Diyala were loamier with more balanced textures and moderate fertility, as well as organic matter of between 1.8 and 1.9%. The hilly soils of Erbil, being of moderate permeability and low salinity (EC = 1.9 dS/m), were suitable for crop rotation and orchards.

Conclusion:

The findings clearly indicate that soil management practices are region-specific, calling for organic amendment applications to sandy soils, improved drainage in saline clay soils, and conservation methods in loamy areas.