Seasonal variation in water soluble ions in coastal saline soils during monsoon: A case study

This study explores the seasonal changes in water-soluble anions (chloride, carbonate, bicarbonate, sulphate) and cations (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium) in coastal saline soils under monsoon conditions across seven replicate plots over five consecutive months at Khar Land Research Station, Panvel, Dist. Raigad, Maharashtra. Ion concentrations displayed notable temporal variations, with chloride and sulphate peaking in November, suggesting ion accumulation after peak rainfall and a decrease in leaching. Correlation analysis indicated strong positive correlations between chloride and sulphate and between calcium and magnesium, reflecting common sources and biogeochemical dynamics during the monsoon. The findings emphasize the role of monsoon-driven processes such as leaching, mineral weathering, and nutrient cycling in determining soil ionic composition, which directly affects soil fertility and crop nutrition. This research provides crucial data to facilitate improved nutrient management strategies in rain-fed agriculture under variable monsoon conditions.