ملخص
This laboratory study aims to investigate the effect of adding dry grinders of Cactus (Opuntia ficus- indica) and palm leaf bases (Rachis) and commercial soil enhancer (Compost) with different mixing ratios (2.5, 5.0, 7.5%, by weight) on improving hydraulic properties of sandy soil. Hydraulic properties included the water retention capacity, the saturated hydraulic conductivity, and the moisture content at tension values of 0.3, 1, 10 and 15 bar. These properties were estimated at the beginning of the experiment, and after six months, during which moisture and drying cycles had taken place. Through the obtained results, it was found that all additives improved the soil hydraulic properties, so that the values of the soil retention capacity and soil moisture content versus tension increased. On the other hand, all additives reduced the values of the hydraulic conductivity. The results also indicated lack significant effect of time (at the level of 5%). The different mixing ratios did not significantly affect the hydraulic conductivity (at the level of 5%). However, the results showed that the rachis grinders and the mixture consisting of rachis and cactus outperformed in hydraulic properties as compared with other t