Problems
       "The South" is a part of Thailand where there a lot of natural resources. As a result, most people think of this part as the prosperous economic source.
       Actually, some people are rich but others are still poor.
       From the survey conducted by Soil Survey and Classification Division, Land Development Department , there are 1 million rai of acid and saline soil area in the south. (Total area is 43.8 million rai) Farmers have a problem of rice prodution : only 200-400 liters/rai



       Some area could not be planted, especially in Pattani, Phattalung, Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Songkhla and Satun. Peple are poor and have planting area only 10 rai/family. Because of geographical features of the South where there are most upland and mountains and less plain lowland for growing rice, farmers can not increase their rice production by increasing planting area.

       Acid soil area could not be used as planting since :
       1. In acid sulfate soil area, plant nutrients are changed into the form that plants can not drow.
       2. The level of toxic minerals melt in acid soil is high. As a result , plant can not grow and crops yield decreases.
       3. Acid soil texture is sticky and dense. It is hard for water and air ventilation and soil preparation.
       4. In acid sulfate soil, microbs can not grow and do microbial activity useful to soil.
       5. There are low levels of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Calcium and Magnesium essential for plant growth.
       Acid soil features and reclamation
       In acid soil area, water in the pond is clear as being swung by alum and its taste is sour. Dig the soil 50-150 cm. and find yellow substance spread in soil texture. Some plants like reed and Eugenia usually grow in acid soil area.


   
       Acid soil can be improved by scattering slaked lime or limestone in acid soil area 2-3 ton/rai and incorporating soil before planting.

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