Description of practice
Applied in a thin protective layer, soil conditioners can stabilize a soil surface protecting it from wind and water erosion, retaining soil moisture and/or minimizing evaporation for some weeks. Soil conditioning products are based on liquid polymers, lignite wax or by-products from the sugar and paper industry.
| Examples of how to use soil conditioners | Further information (see Note below) |
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BiosolidsBiosolids (treated sewage sludge) are applied as a protective, fertilizing layer to the topsoil. Their use needs to be controlled because long-term application increases the amounts of heavy metals and other trace elements in the soil. |
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Paper CrumblePaper Crumble is a by-product of the paper industry consisting of odourless woody fibres. When spread on agricultural fields it boosts organic matter content and improves the soil structure of arable land. |
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Superabsorbant polymersSuperabsorbant polymers are functionally inert polymers with good water absorption and holding capacity. Spread on the soil surface they turn into a natural gel and protect the soil beneath. |
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Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.