Abstract
The use of gel-conditioners has been shown to increase water holding capacity in arid soils. The use of Jalma, a gel-forming conditioner, was investigated in sandy soils at two moisture regimes to assess the effects on infiltration, evaporation, water conservation, and soil moisture. On the basis of various application rates at varying soil depths, results indicated that 0.8% Jalma on the soil surface increased the time required for infiltration, but application at lower depth had little effect on infiltration. Surface Jalma treatment reduced cumulative evaporation and consequently increased water conservation. When applied at depth, Jalma had no effect on evaporation or water conservation. Soil moisture profiles revealed that Jalma applications can be utilized to maximize soil moisture at desired depths.