Simulation of root water uptake under combined soil moisture and salinity stress

Abstract

Abstract. The objective of this study was to develop a mathematical model that describes soil water movement and root water uptake under the conditions of combined stress of soil moisture and salinity. The mass transport equations of salts have been incorporated as part of the integrated model SWMS_2D and the soil salinity was represented by the soil electrical conductivity. There was good agreement between the simulated and measured values of the water content and salinity. The modified version of model SWMS 2D is able to predict the water uptake process under the combined stress of soil moisture and salinity and it is suitable for irrigation management in areas with scarce and low quality water resources.