Tuesday, April 29, 2025

A to Z - Day 25 - Yellow soil

We are talking about regular soil that has developed a bit of tan. The yellow tinge comes from iron oxide.

Yellow soil typically forms in more humid or wetter conditions where iron oxides become hydrated. 

This is different from the red soil that forms in relatively drier, well-drained conditions, where iron oxides remain in the oxidised form.

It's there across India, particularly in the southern and eastern bits of the Deccan Plateau, which, of course, includes parts of Karnataka.

Yellow soil often has higher silica content, which is less beneficial for plant growth, making it generally less fertile than red soil.

Its characteristics -- good drainage but low in nitrogen and organic matter -- make it suitable for crops that do not require very rich soil but benefit from good aeration and moderate moisture retention.

It has many uses. Since it possesses a good drainage system, it helps prevent waterlogging and the growth of harmful bacteria. 

They could also be used in the construction industry for manufacturing bricks and tiles due to their stability and durability. 

These soils have a low erosion potential, making them ideal for long-term crop production and sustainable agriculture.

So, though it might not be so beneficial for plant growth, it still has many uses.

(This post is part of the A to Z Challenge. The theme is environment.)


3 comments:

  1. Hari Om
    Ah, I hadn't thought about the yellow soil - although very familiar with laterite (red soil). Deep breaths... last one coming! YAM xx

    ReplyDelete
  2. I had not heard of yellow soil before.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I have never heard of yellow soil but is amazing how things can affect nature that we often don't think about, another great post

    ReplyDelete

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