Potential Use of Fly Ash (FA) in Improving Soil and Crop Productivity on Arenosols

Abstract

Arenosols are least fertile mineral soils in the World. In Zimbabwe, 70% of soils are Arenosols characterized by poor structure and low crop productivity. Therefore, objective of this review was to determine soil conditioning potential of fly ash (FA) in Arenosols. Soil conditioners enhance soil productivity by modifying soil both physical and chemical properties. Application of organic manure (OM) is an excellent soil conditioner; however, scarce therefore alternative sources of conditioners are imperative. FA is a potential substitute to OM but in Zimbabwe large deposits are idle. Fly ash was observed to improve crop productivity in desert, lateral and saline soils. However, application rates under different soil types and effects on specific soil properties are still unclear. Fly ash is a potential soil conditioner, can improve soil productivity and its utilization reduces environmental pollution.