Join 60,000+ competitive exam aspirants
Which soil is best suited for the cultivation of cotton in India?
Red soil
Black soil
Alluvial soil
Laterite soil
Black soil
Black soil, also known as Regur soil or black cotton soil, is best suited for cotton cultivation due to its high clay content, which gives it excellent moisture-retention capacity. This soil develops deep cracks during the dry season, facilitating self-plowing and aeration, which are critical for the root development of cotton plants.
Black soil, also known as Regur soil or black cotton soil, is best suited for cotton cultivation due to its high clay content, which gives it excellent moisture-retention capacity. This soil develops deep cracks during the dry season, facilitating self-plowing and aeration, which are critical for the root development of cotton plants.
Black soil is primarily found in the Deccan Trap region, covering parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and northern Karnataka, formed by the weathering of basaltic lava rocks.
Black soil is rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, potash, and lime but poor in phosphoric content.
It is highly argillaceous, meaning it becomes sticky when wet and swells, and develops deep, wide cracks when dry.
The dark color of this soil is attributed to the presence of iron, magnesium, and aluminum titanate compounds.
Red soil is formed on crystalline igneous rocks and is generally deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, and humus.
Alluvial soil is the most fertile and widespread soil in India, ideal for wheat, rice, and sugarcane, but not specifically for cotton.
Laterite soil is formed through intense leaching in areas of high temperature and heavy rainfall and is best suited for tea, coffee, and cashew nuts.
Black soil is chemically self-ploughing, reducing the need for intensive mechanical tilling.
B is correct тАФ Black soil possesses the specific moisture-retention capacity and mineral composition required for optimal cotton yield.
When studying Indian Agriculture, always link soil types with their geographical distribution; for instance, Black soil is synonymous with the Deccan Volcanic Province, just as Alluvial soil is linked to the Indo-Gangetic Plains.