Black Soil
Black soil, known for its rich nutrient content, is essential for agriculture, especially for crops like cotton. Formed from volcanic rock (basalt), it is prominent in the Deccan Plateau region, covering areas in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. This soil exhibits high moisture retention, crucial for dry farming conditions in its region. Moreover, its texture helps in aerating the soil, benefiting plant growth.
The section aligns black soil's properties with effective agricultural practices, making it vital for farmers, particularly in cotton production. Rich in nutrients like calcium carbonate and magnesium, black soil is less fertile in phosphoric content but composes fine particles facilitating moisture retention. It is critical for sustaining agriculture in semi-arid regions of India, underlining the need for proper farming and conservation methods.