The following are five important characteristics of Black soil:


(i) It is fine textured and clayey in nature.

( ii ) It has high amounts of lime, iron, magnesium and generally low quantities of phosphorus, nitrogen and organic matter.

( iii ) It is black in colour since it is formed from weathered lava rocks.

( iv ) It has up to 50% clay content and therefore is highly retentive of water. Because of the high clay content, these soils expand when wet and become difficult to plough through. During the dry season, these soils shrink and develop big cracks which help in the circulation of air.

( v ) The soil is extremely fertile in most of the places where it is found..

Properties of Black Soil
• **Color**: Black soil, also known as black cotton soil, gets its name from its dark color which is due to the presence of high organic matter content.
• **Texture**: Black soil has a unique texture that is crumbly and friable when dry, but sticky and hard when wet. This texture allows for good aeration and water retention.
• **Nutrient-rich**: Black soil is known for its high fertility due to its rich nutrient content, especially calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. This makes it ideal for agriculture.
• **Water retention**: One of the key properties of black soil is its excellent water retention capacity. It can hold moisture for a long time, making it suitable for crops during dry spells.
• **pH level**: Black soil is slightly alkaline in nature with a pH range of 7.0-8.5, which is conducive to most crops' growth.
• **Cation exchange capacity (CEC)**: Black soil has a high CEC, meaning it can hold onto essential nutrients and release them to plants as needed.
• **Good structure**: The soil has a good crumb structure and is well-drained, preventing waterlogging and allowing roots to penetrate easily.
• **Suitable for a variety of crops**: Black soil is suitable for a wide range of crops like cotton, wheat, sugarcane, and pulses due to its fertility and texture.
In conclusion, black soil's properties make it highly desirable for agriculture, providing a fertile ground for various crops to thrive.