Performance of Tamarix Aphylla (L.) H.Karst. Var Erectus on Salty Acid Sulphate Soils of Ndiaffate Terroir, Kaolack (Senegal)

The increasing salinization of Sine Saloum river basin lands is on a scale that far exceeds the current reclamation and use capacity of populations. For this, a biomechanical design associating a levee network and Tamarix aphylla (L.) H.Karst as a biological pump was implemented in Ndiaffate village in 1998. The experimental design was a randomized complete blocks with three treatments, a control and five replicates. The treatments were three planting densities (4 x 3, 4 x 4 and 4 x 5 m). Ten years later, it was important to evaluate species and its effects on salinity and acidity of studied lands. Systematic monitoring of plants was conducted. Diameter, height and number of T. aphylla stems, salinity and acidity of the experimental plots were measured. Data analysis shows that planting density has direct effects on T. aphylla growth and undirect effects on soil salinity and acidity. The 4 x 5 m treatment seems to give the best success rates and growth. A significant difference was found between height, diameter and regeneration means. A follow-up of the amplitude of chemical parameters’ seasonal variations seems to be necessary.