Hydrological constants and water regime of a Calcic Chernozems in the zone of true steppe of Ukraine

Abstract

The characteristics of important water-physical properties and water-balance monitoring results for Calcic Chernozems located in the zone of true steppe were provided. The differences between soil-hydrological constants in carbonated loess-like loam and organogenic horizons were established. The results of water-balance monitoring showed that the moisture has uneven distribution along the soil profile, and most of the active moisture (more than 90%) was accumulated within the range of depths from 0 to 150 cm. During the entire calendar year, the soil is characterized by a lack of moisture available to plants. There are no periods free from water deficit.