Land evaluation of selected area representing El-Tina plain soils in the north western part of Sinai peninsula [electronic resource].

Includes reference.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the soil characteristics of the reclaimed soils of El-Tina plain. The study area occupies 36000 feddans and located between latitudes of 30º, 48 to 310\, 15 N and longitudes of 320, 19\0 to 32 – 40\ E. Seven soil profiles were selected to represent the reclaimed soils of El-Tina plain and were morphologically described. Some physical and chemical properties were assessed. Soil classification, land capability and land suitability were also done. The results indicated that the values of soil moisture content at field capacity, wilting point and available water are mainly related to soil texture and salinity. According to the taxonomic system, the studied soils could be classified into two orders (i.e Vertisols and Aridisols), three suborders (i.e. Aquerts, Torrerts and Gypsids) and their degradation up to the family level (i.e. five families). The current suitability of the studied soils could be categorized into two suitability classes ( i.e. marginally (S3 ) and not suitable CN.) , which are suffering from wetness (W), some soil properties ( i.e. soil) texture, salinity, sodicity, gypsum and CaCo3 as soil limitations with different intensity degrees. By matching the parametric approach of land indices and the requirements of some specific crops, the obtained data of soil suitability for some selected crops (22 crops) which are presented for the studied soils as land suitability guide Tables, reveal that the current suitability classes were moderately suitable (S2) for growing Maize, Barley, Cotton and Olive, marginally suitable (S3) for cubage and not suitable (N) for other crops.

Summary in Arabic.

1