what are the different types of soil crpop preparation method Related:...
Different crops need different type of soils, different types and amounts ofnutrients, and different types and amounts of water. The amount of water required by the plant is also dependent on the growing season and the climate where it is grown. By selecting the right crop for the given soil conditions and climate, one can optimise yields and save water requirements for irrigation.
Alluvial Soils
This type of soil is common in Northern India, particularly in the delta regions. Alluvial soils are deposited by rivers and are rich in some nutrients (particularly potash and humus), but are lacking in nitrogen and phosphorous. They tend to be sandier and quicker-draining than many other soils. Rice, wheat, sugarcane, cotton and jute all grow well in these soils.
Black Soils
Black soil gets its color from various salts or from humus. It contains a large amount of clay, but is sandy as well in hillier regions. This soil contains moderate amounts of phosphorous but is poor in nitrogen. This type of soil is also used for rice, wheat, sugarcane and cotton. It is additionally used to grow groundnut, millet and oilseeds.
Laterite Soils
These soils are found in areas of India with heavy rainfall, particularly near the coasts. It is an acidic soil and is rich in iron, which gives the soil a somewhat red appearance. It is used to grow more tropical crops such as cashew, rubber, coconut, tea and coffee.
Mountain Soils
These soils are found in the Himalayas and contain significant amounts of organic matter. They are somewhat acidic, but suitable for growing tea, coffee, spices and many types of tropical fruits.
Red and Yellow Soils
Red and yellow soils get their names from the very large amounts of iron oxide present in them. They are sandy and somewhat acidic, and are also low in nitrogen and phosphorous. Despite this, red and yellow soils are used to grow rice, wheat, sugarcane, millet, groundnut, ragi and potato.
Other Soils
There are various other types of soil in India, but none of them is suitable for growing crops. Saline and alkaline soils are too low in nutrients and too high in salt for productive agriculture. Marsh soils are likewise unfit, but mainly because of their high acidity.