Soils of Chhattisgarh

The state is also for its rich agricultural resources, and the soils found in Chhattisgarh can be broadly classified into the following types:

Alluvial Soil-Soils of Chhattisgarh

Alluvial soil is in the northern parts of Chhattisgarh, particularly along the banks of rivers such as Mahanadi, Hasdeo, and Kelo.

Basically, It is formed by the deposition of silt, clay, sand, and gravel carried by rivers, making it fertile and suitable for agriculture.

Basically, It gets mixed with water and the pebbles that remain are called laterite soil.

Loamy soil Local name

Dorsa

Area

Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma

Agriculture

Also Suitable for paddy Here the soil is found in Dantewada and Sukma.

This is also due to iron oxide.

So, It is red.

The water flowing in it is also red.

The PH value is more than 6.5. (Acidic) It has the lowest water-holding capacity.

Black Soil-Soils of Chhattisgarh

The black soil, also known as regur soil or black cotton soil, is found in the central and southern parts of Chhattisgarh.

It is characterized by its high clay content, dark color, and good water-holding capacity.

Black soil is highly fertile and suitable for growing crops like cotton, soybeans, wheat, and pulses.

black soil local names: Kanharkshetra – Balod, Bemetara, Mungeli, Rajim, Mahasamund, Kurud, Dhamtari, Kawardha Krishi – Cotton.

It is in 10 to 15% of gram, gram, wheat, and sugarcane.

It is also brown, deep chika and regur soil.

Basically,  Kanhar and Bharri soil by the local people.

It is basalt and slag-made soil.

Art due to ferric titanium It is visible.

It has the maximum water-holding capacity.

Therefore it is more fertile for the crop.

PH value is 7 to 8 (Alkaline).

Here the main crops are gram, wheat, sugarcane.

Here in Maikal Ksheni, Rajnandgaon, Kawardha is found.

Red and Yellow Soils of Chhattisgarh

So, due to ferrous oxide.

Red and yellow soils are found in the hilly regions of Chhattisgarh, particularly in the southern parts of the state.

These soils are formed due to weathering of rocks and are rich in iron oxide, which gives them their characteristic color.

While red soils are relatively fertile, yellow soils are less fertile and require proper management for agriculture.

Yellow soils

Yellow color – yellow due to ferric oxide.

Made from Gondwana and Chintamani rock.

PH value 5.5 to 8.5 Occurs up to.

It is found in the plains of Chhattisgarh and Surguja basins

Here the main crop is paddy.

Laterite Soil

Laterite soil is found in the eastern parts of Chhattisgarh, especially in the districts of Bastar and Surguja.

It is a type of tropical soil that is rich in iron and aluminum oxides.

Laterite soil is typically reddish in color and has a low fertility level.

However, with appropriate soil management practices, it can support the cultivation of certain crops.

Laterite soil Local name

Bhatakshetra

Area

Surguja and some parts of Durg division and Jagdalpur.

Agriculture

Potato and coarse grains

Other

Hard, useful in building construction Aluminum oxides are found in it.

Here it is in the Jashpur Pat region.

It is used for the construction of mud buildings.

Used in. PH value is more than 7 (alkaline).

Here the main crop is tomato, tea, etc. It is of color.

This soil is formed by alluvial.

Laterite soil, Murum Contained, with small stones Hill – Mixture of Bhata and Tikra Local names of soil in Bastar (in order of high to low land) Marhantikra (red sandy soil) Important facts asked till now Kailash cave built by Sant Rameshwar Gahira Gurudwara, ashram has been built leaving the harsh hill, here is the temple of Shiva and Parvati.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil is found in some parts of Chhattisgarh, particularly in the northern and western regions.

It is characterized by its coarse texture, good drainage, and low water-holding capacity.

Sandy soil is less fertile compared to other soil types and often requires regular irrigation and proper nutrient management for agriculture.

Tikra is the second-highest soil in Chhattisgarh.

Found in about 20-30% in Chhattisgarh It is found in Dandakaranya.

It is acidic.

Here the main crop is coarse grains (Kodo Kutki)

It’s important to note that these soil types may vary within different districts and regions of Chhattisgarh, and there might be variations or overlaps in soil characteristics.

Local factors such as topography, climate, and vegetation also influence the nature and composition of soils in specific areas.

Some regions in Chhattisgarh have soils with acidic properties. These soils are characterized by low pH levels, which can affect the availability of essential nutrients for plants. Acidic soils are typically found in areas with high rainfall, as leaching processes contribute to acidity. Soil amendment practices, such as liming, are often employed to neutralize acidity and improve soil fertility.

Soil Erosion

Chhattisgarh, like many other states in India, faces the challenge of soil erosion. Factors such as deforestation, improper agricultural practices, and unsustainable land use contribute to soil erosion in the region. The state government has implemented various soil conservation measures, including contour plowing, terracing, and afforestation, to mitigate erosion and preserve soil health.

Soil Fertility Management

Given the importance of agriculture in Chhattisgarh, soil fertility management practices are crucial for sustained agricultural productivity. Farmers often employ techniques like organic farming, crop rotation, green manuring, and the application of organic and inorganic fertilizers to enhance soil fertility and maintain soil health.

Soil Health Cards

In recent years, the Government of India has introduced a Soil Health Card scheme to provide farmers with detailed information about the nutrient content, pH levels, and fertility status of their soils. This initiative helps farmers make informed decisions about fertilizer application, soil amendments, and crop selection, ultimately promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Soil Testing Laboratories

Chhattisgarh has several soil testing laboratories where farmers can get their soil samples analyze. These laboratories provide valuable insights into the nutrient status of the soil, enabling farmers to optimize their fertilizer use and adopt site-specific nutrient management practices.

Soil Conservation Initiatives

Chhattisgarh has undertaken various initiatives to conserve soil and promote sustainable agriculture. The state government focuses on watershed development programs, rainwater harvesting, afforestation, and promoting conservation agriculture techniques like zero tillage and conservation tillage to prevent soil degradation and improve soil quality.

So, It’s important to note that soil management practices and initiatives in Chhattisgarh are dynamic, and new approaches may be adopted over time to address the specific challenges faced by farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the state.