Assessing the Impact of Saline Irrigation Water on Durum Wheat (cv. Faraj) Grown on Sandy and Clay Soils

Abstract

In Morocco, saline irrigation significantly affects soil quality and reduces crop yields. This study evaluates the effect of salt stress on soil properties and the overall performance of the durum wheat variety “Faraj”, aiming to optimize production under saline conditions. A greenhouse experiment was conducted during the 2023–2024 season, using a completely randomized design (CRD) to assess soil properties, plant growth, and yield. Five salinity levels (0.2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 dS m−1) were applied to two soil types: silty-clay (S1) and sandy (S2). Results showed significant changes in soil properties, including increased pH, electrical conductivity, and accumulation of potassium, calcium, and magnesium in soil. Grain yield decreased significantly with increasing salinity, from 1.12 t ha−1 in freshwater to 0.12 t ha−1 at 16 dS m−1 in S1, and from 0.56 t ha−1 in freshwater to 0.12 t ha−1 at 16 dS m−1 in S2. Straw yield was less affected, with values of 1.24 and 1.16 t ha−1 for S1 and S2 at 12 dS m−1, decreasing to 0.80 and 0.55 t ha−1 at 16 dS m−1. The “Faraj” variety shows good tolerance to salinity up to 8 dS m−1 for grain yield and 12 dS m−1 for straw yield, making it particularly suitable for moderately saline environments.