STUDYING THE NEEDS OF BARLEY FOR EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN THE CONDITIONS OF SOUTHERNUKRAINE TO JUSTIFY RECLAMATION

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a key grain crop in Southern Ukraine, utilized in the food industry, animal husbandry, and for industrial purposes. Its productivity depends on ecological factors such as climatic conditions, soil properties, water availability, and agricultural practices. Amid climate change and the increasing frequency of droughts, studying the ecological needs of barley becomes particularly significant for developing effective farming strategies aimed at enhancing crop yield and resilience. Climatic factors, including temperature fluctuations, precipitation levels, and seasonal variability, significantly impact barley cultivation. Rising temperatures and inconsistent rainfall in the region cause water stress and yield reduction. Understanding these effects forms the basis for adaptive measures, such as optimizing irrigation, developing drought-resistant varieties, and improving land-use planning. Soil properties also play a crucial role in barley productivity. The diversity of the region’s soil cover — from fertile chernozems to saline soils and degraded lands — affects nutrient availability and water supply. The application of crop rotation, organic fertilizers, and conservation tillage can enhance soil quality and promote sustainable barley cultivation. Additionally, land restoration measures, such as desalinization and erosion control, are essential for revitalizing degraded areas and improving agroecological resilience. To ensure high and stable barley yields, a comprehensive approach that considers climatic, soil, and agronomic factors is necessary. Scientifically grounded farming methods will help optimize growing conditions and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Further research should focus on refining land-use strategies and breeding climate-resilient barley varieties to support sustainable agriculture in Southern Ukraine.