Deserts soils are usually light coloured with minimal humus content due to which the plant productivity is low. Also, the water-retaining capacity is very less. However, they are rich in minerals- calcium carbonate (caliche), gypsum, and/or salts.

Desert soil and its lower horizon deposits

Desert soil is characterized by low organic matter content, high salinity, and alkalinity. Due to the arid climate and lack of vegetation, desert soil is often depleted of essential nutrients needed for plant growth. However, the lower horizon of desert soil can contain deposits of calcium, iron, potash, and phosphorus, which are important nutrients for plants.

Calcium deposits in desert soil

Calcium is a vital nutrient for plant growth and development. It plays a crucial role in cell wall formation, membrane permeability, and enzyme activation. Calcium deposits in the lower horizon of desert soil can be attributed to the accumulation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and calcium sulfate (CaSO4) over time. These deposits are often found in the form of caliche, a hard, cement-like layer that forms in the soil.

Iron deposits in desert soil

Iron is another essential nutrient for plant growth. It is involved in the synthesis of chlorophyll, which is necessary for photosynthesis. Iron deposits in the lower horizon of desert soil can be found in the form of iron oxides, such as hematite (Fe2O3) and goethite (FeOOH). These deposits give desert soil its characteristic reddish-brown color.

Potash deposits in desert soil

Potash is a term commonly used to refer to potassium-containing compounds that are essential for plant growth. Potassium plays a vital role in enzyme activation, osmoregulation, and stress tolerance. Potash deposits in the lower horizon of desert soil can be attributed to the accumulation of potassium salts, such as potassium chloride (KCl) and potassium sulfate (K2SO4).

Phosphorus deposits in desert soil

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for plant growth, involved in energy transfer, nucleic acid synthesis, and cell division. Phosphorus deposits in the lower horizon of desert soil can be found in the form of phosphates, such as calcium phosphate (Ca3(PO4)2) and iron phosphate (FePO4). These deposits are often found in association with calcium deposits.

Calcium