Most of the irrigated soils of the Nile River Delta are classified by the U.S. Soil Taxonomy as vertisols. For proper irrigation management, the extensive cracking exhibited by these soils upon drying requires an understanding of how crack formations affect, among other factors, infiltration, internal drainage, salt and sodium movement, root growth, and evaporation. Other considerations more specific to the Delta region with respect to the effect of textural stratification on various soil properties important in irrigation management are also addressed. Discussion of these considerations is based on pertinent findings reported in the literature. A 42-item bibliography (1923-1980) is appended. (Author abstract, modified).