Soil Types, Minerals and Crops

Types of Soil and Their Characteristics

• Doombe (Glase) soil is found in Western Rajasthan and parts of Punjab, typically in lower parts of valleys and mountains.
• This type of soil contains Limonite and is suitable for growing Groundnut.

Alluvial Soil

• Alluvial soil is found in the Eastern Coastal Plains, specifically in the delta of Mahanadi, Krishna, and Godavari Rivers, and extends to Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• It is a source of Potash and is presumed to contain other minerals.
• Sugarcane and pulses are commonly grown in this type of soil.

Red and Yellow Soil (Laterite)

• Red and Yellow soil is mainly found in the Deccan Plateau, Malwa Plateau, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.
• It contains Calcium Carbonates, Colloids, and Lime, and is suitable for growing Cotton and Maize.

Black Soil (Regur)

• Black soil is found in the eastern and southern parts of the Deccan Plateau, west of Chhattisgarh, and southern parts of the middle Ganges.
• It is presumed to contain Iron and is suitable for growing Jute, Rice, and Wheat.

Laterite Soil

• Laterite soil is found in Karnataka, Kerala, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, and Assam.
• It contains Aluminum Oxide and is suitable for growing Tea, Coffee, Cashew nuts, rubber, and spices.

General Soil Properties

• Some soils have a sectile nature, making them suitable for tractor use.
• Soils rich in humus content are fertile and have high water retention, making them easily workable for cultivation.
• Iron-rich soils are valuable for agriculture.
• Soils classified as Khadar and Bhangar have distinct characteristics.
• Lava and clay material make up some soils.
• Some soils hold moisture well, making them suitable for cultivation.
• Reddish-colored soils contain Ferric oxide and aluminum oxide.
• Humid climates may require external moisture sources for optimal soil conditions.
• Areas with heavy rainfall, low temperature, and high humus content provide requisite moisture for cultivation.