SOIL MAPPING AND FERTILITY ASSESSMENT OF IRRIGATED SANDY DESERT SOILS IN BUKHARA REGION

Abstract

This article presents the results of soil mapping and fertility assessment of irrigated sandy desert soils in the Bukhara region, using Jondor district as a case study. The research focused on the morphological, granulometric, agrochemical and reclamation characteristics of irrigated soils. Particular attention was paid to soil texture, humus content, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, salinity level and soil quality rating. The findings indicate that a considerable part of the irrigated soils of Jondor district is characterized by low humus content, insufficient nutrient supply, light mechanical composition and weak to moderate salinity. The main part of the studied lands belongs to soils with a bonitet score of 21–40 points, which corresponds to below-average quality lands. Based on the obtained results, scientifically grounded recommendations are proposed to improve soil fertility, reduce salinity and ensure the rational use of irrigated agricultural lands.