Black Soil (Chernozem or Regur Soil): 10 Key Tips for Healthy Maintenance

Black soil, also known as Chernozem or Regur soil, found in the lava-covered regions, is the most noticeable among India’s in situ soils. Although they are sometimes referred to as regur, those soils are more commonly referred to as “black cotton soils” since cotton has traditionally been the most widely grown crop in the regions where they are found.

On the Deccan lava plateau and the Malwa Plateau, where there is moderate rainfall and underlying basaltic rock, Chernozem soils, which are derivatives of trap lava, are primarily found in interior Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. Chernozem soils have a high percentage of clay, which causes large fissures to form during the dry season, yet their iron-rich granular structure prevents wind and water erosion.

Different Types of Soil in India

India’s many soil types have produced a rich mosaic of farming techniques, with various crops and cropping systems adapted to different soil and climatic circumstances. Soil management and conservation practices are essential for sustaining the nation’s food security and agricultural output. India has various soils due to its varied geography and climate.

Only two factors—fertile or sterile soil—were used to categorize objects in the ancient era. The categorization was as follows:

• Urvara (fecund)
• Usara (inert)

When mankind became aware of the many attributes of soil in the modern era, they started categorizing soil according to its texture, color, moisture content, etc. Here are the various types of soils found in India.

Alluvial Soil

• Found in the river basins and Indo-Gangetic plains.
• Consists of organic material, sand, clay, and silt.

Black Cotton Soil

• Found mainly in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and portions of Gujarat on the Deccan Plateau.
• Clay minerals, notably montmorillonite, are abundant.
• It is well-known for its ability to retain moisture.

Red & Yellow Soil

• Found across India, especially the southern states.
• It thrives in places with abundant rainfall and high temperatures.
• It holds iron oxide, lending it a reddish hue.

Laterite Soil

• The Western Ghats, sections of the Eastern Ghats, and northeastern states are all home to this species.
• Iron-rich soil that has been heavily leached.

Mountainous soil

• Found in hilly and mountainous regions like the Himalayas.
• Varies widely in composition due to local geological conditions.

Arid soil

• Arid parts of northern India, especially Rajasthan, are home to this species.
• Organic matter and moisture-retentive capacity are low.

Saline and Alkaline Soil

• Found along the shore and in locations with poor drainage.
• Alkalinity and high salt content.

Peaty and Marshy Soil

• Found in the swampy areas of Kerala and the Sundarbans delta.
• High organic content and waterlogged.

Soil maps show the many types and qualities of soils in a given area. Farmers may use this information to choose the best crops for their soil conditions, maximizing production and profitability. Different soils vary in nutrient content and nutrient-holding capacity. Soil maps assist farmers in determining nutrient deficits and excesses, allowing for accurate fertilizer application to maximize crop growth while minimizing environmental consequences.

Black Cotton Soil

Black cotton soil is a fascinating type of earth with distinctive features. Its name comes from its dark color, and it is particularly well-suited for cotton cultivation. This soil stands out due to its unique properties and significant agricultural role.

Formation of Black Soil

It is formed from the weathering of volcanic rock, particularly basalt. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Volcanic Eruption: When volcanoes erupt, they spew out molten rock called lava. This lava eventually cools and solidifies, forming basalt rock.
2. Weathering of Basalt: Over time, this basalt rock is exposed to the elements like wind, rain, and sun. These elements break down the rock into smaller and smaller pieces.
3. Mineral Richness: Basalt is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminum. As the rock weathers, these minerals are released into the soil.
4. Clay Formation: The weathering process also creates clay minerals, which give black soil its characteristic sticky texture when wet and its ability to retain moisture.
5. Organic Matter: While low in organic matter initially, black soil can become fertile over time as decomposed plant matter and animal waste are incorporated.

Additional factors:

• Climate: Hot and humid climates with moderate rainfall are ideal for black soil formation.
• Location: Black soil is commonly found in the Deccan Plateau regions of India and other areas with a history of volcanic activity.

Black soil is a mineral-rich soil formed from the weathering of volcanic rock, mainly basalt. It’s known for its dark color, clay content, and moisture-retaining properties, making it suitable for agriculture.

Types of Black Soil

Black soil, also known as Chernozem or Regur soil, is classified into three subgroups based on its thickness. These categories help determine the soil’s suitability for different agricultural practices and its ability to retain moisture and nutrients.

1. Shallow Black Soil typically has a thickness of less than 30 centimeters. Due to its limited depth, this soil type is more prone to erosion and may require more frequent irrigation. It is generally found in regions with poor water retention capabilities, which can limit the growth of certain crops. However, it is still suitable for growing drought-resistant plants or crops that do not require deep-rooted systems.
2. Medium Black Soil has a thickness between 30 and 100 centimeters. It is more favorable for agriculture than shallow black soil, as it has better water retention and nutrient storage capacity. It can support various crops, including cotton, groundnut, and soybean, making it highly valuable for farming in many regions. The soil’s depth allows for deeper root penetration, promoting better crop growth.
3. Deep Black Soil is characterized by a thickness of more than 1 meter. This type of soil is the most fertile and productive, offering excellent moisture retention and high nutrient content. It supports the growth of a wide range of crops, particularly those that require deep root systems, such as sugarcane, cotton, and pulses. It is typically found in regions with rich organic matter and excellent drainage properties, making it highly suitable for large-scale agricultural production.

Overall, the different types of black soil vary in their suitability for specific crops, water retention capabilities, and agricultural practices. Understanding these variations helps farmers select the best practices for soil conservation and effective land management.

Physical and Chemical Properties of Black Soil

1. Soil Structure and Moisture Retention
   • These soils feature a distinct, dark-colored, thick horizon that is mainly composed of organic material. This shows that they are well-structured and typically have a significant depth to support vigorous root development.
   • Their soil structure also contributes to a higher moisture storage ability, making them adept at holding moisture, which is key for high agricultural productivity in dry or semi-arid situations.
   • Although covering only 5.6% of global soils, they are significant in growing crops due to their physical ability to hold nutrients and water.
2. Nutrient Characteristics and pH
   • These soils are chemically rich in nutrients such as iron, lime, calcium, potassium, aluminum, and magnesium.
   • However, they are distinctly deficient in nitrogen and phosphorus, essential for plant growth, and often must be supplied through fertilizers.
   • They also store approximately 56 billion tonnes of Soil Organic Carbon (SOC), which is 2–10% of the total soil mass and is vital in nutrient cycling, soil structure, and overall soil fertility.
   • The SOC component is crucial for the chemical and biological functioning of the soil and is the key to mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Key Characteristics of Black Soils

• A typical type of this soil is highly argillaceous [Geology (of rocks or sediment) consisting of or containing clay], with a significant clay factor of 62 percent or more.
• Generally, they are of the uplands and have low fertility, while the black soil of the valleys is very fertile.
• This soil is very moisture-retentive and swells considerably with accumulating moisture. Working on this soil in the rain requires strenuous efforts and can become sticky. In summer, the moisture evaporates, and the soil shrinks and fissures with broad and deep cracks.
• The lower levels still retain moisture. The cracks permit oxygenation of the soil to considerable depth and yield remarkable fertility.

Crops Grown on Black Soil

• This soil has been cultivated for various crops for several hundred years without any fertilizer or manures being added and with no or little sign of exhaustion.
• The soils best suited for the cotton crop are regur and black.
• Major crops cultivated on this soil include wheat, jowar, linseed, Virginia tobacco, castor, sunflower, and millets.
• Rice and sugarcane are equally important where irrigation facilities are available. Large varieties of vegetables and fruits have also been grown successfully on black soil.

Agricultural Importance of Black Soil

Black soil, also known as chernozem or regur, holds significant importance in agriculture due to several key characteristics:

1. Suitability for Various Crops: Black soil’s fertility and moisture retention make it ideal for growing various crops. This soil type supports diverse agricultural production, from grains like wheat and barley to legumes and cash crops like cotton and sunflowers.
2. High Fertility: Black soil is rich in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminum, derived from the weathering of volcanic rock. These minerals contribute to healthy plant growth and development.
3. Moisture Retention: Black soil clay minerals effectively hold water. This is crucial in areas with moderate rainfall or unpredictable weather patterns, ensuring plants have a consistent water supply.
4. Favorable Texture: Black soil has a crumbly and well-aerated structure. This allows for good root penetration and drainage, promoting healthy root systems for plants.
5. Organic Matter Potential: While initially low in organic matter, black soil can become fertile over time. Decomposed plant matter and animal waste can be incorporated, further enriching the soil and providing crop nutrients.

Threats and Challenges to Black Soil

1. Cracking and Swelling: Black soil’s high clay content makes it prone to cracking during dry periods and swelling when wet. This can damage crops and hinder planting and harvesting activities. Tilling the soil at the proper moisture level is crucial.
2. Erosion: Black soil is susceptible to wind and water erosion, especially on sloping lands. Loss of topsoil can deplete nutrients and reduce fertility. Implementing practices like cover cropping and terracing can help combat erosion.
3. Nutrient Imbalances: While rich in some minerals, black soil can be deficient in nitrogen and phosphorus, which are crucial for plant growth. Regular soil testing and the application of balanced fertilizers are necessary.
4. Salinity Issues: Salts can affect black soil in some regions, hindering plant growth and reducing crop yields. Drainage improvements and the use of salt-tolerant crops might be needed.
5. Unsustainable Practices: Overusing land, excessive chemical applications, and improper irrigation can degrade black soil. Sustainable crop rotation, addition of organic matter, and water conservation are essential.

Black Soil Conservation and Management Strategies

1. Methods for Preserving Black Soil Fertility

Farmers preserve their fertility by adopting crop rotation, organic farming, and minimal use of chemical fertilizers. These methods enhance soil structure and nutrient retention.

2. Sustainable Farming Practices in Black Soil Regions

Embracing sustainable practices, such as water conservation, agroforestry, and contour plowing, helps safeguard black soil and promotes long-term environmental and agricultural sustainability.

3. Economic Importance of Black Soil

Black soil contributes significantly to India’s economy. It supports the growth of crops like cotton, soybeans, and sugarcane, playing a pivotal role in the country’s agricultural and economic prosperity.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Black Soil

Here are some key tips for maintaining healthy black soil:

1. Regular addition of organic matter through compost, manure, or crop residues.
2. Use of cover crops to improve soil structure and add nutrients.
3. Minimization of soil disturbance through conservation tillage or no-till farming.
4. Adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
5. Monitoring and maintaining pH balance with lime or sulfur.
6. Implementing diverse crop rotations to maintain soil health.
7. Erosion control using contour plowing, terracing, or strip cropping.
8. Balanced fertilization based on soil tests and crop needs.
9. Preventing compaction by limiting heavy machinery traffic.
10. Promoting beneficial soil microbes through organic amendments.
11. Water management through efficient irrigation and controlled overwatering.
12. Mulching with organic mulches to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
13. Regular soil testing every 2-3 years to monitor soil health.

Difference between Black Soil and Desert Soil

Aspect	Black Soil	Desert Soil
Color	Dark black or gray	Light brown to reddish-brown
Texture	Clayey and fine-textured	Sandy, coarse, and porous
Moisture Retention	High moisture retention	Poor moisture retention
Nutrient Content	Rich in calcium, magnesium, and potash	Low in organic matter and nutrients
Crop Suitability	Cotton, sugarcane, wheat, pulses	Drought-resistant crops like barley, millet
Region Found	Deccan Plateau (Maharashtra, MP, Gujarat)	Rajasthan, parts of Gujarat, and Haryana
Formation	Weathering of volcanic rocks	Weathering of rocks in dry, arid climates
Fertility	Naturally fertile	Requires irrigation and fertilizers

Comprehensive Overview of Black Soil

What are the threats to black soil?

1. Reduced availability and soaring fertilizer prices are increasing food prices and exacerbating food insecurity.
2. Land-use changes, unsustainable management practices, and excessive agrochemical usage are to blame.
3. Most black soils suffer from moderate to severe erosion, nutrient imbalances, acidification, and biodiversity loss.
4. Smallholder farmers in vulnerable regions across Africa, Latin America, and Asia lack access to organic and inorganic fertilizers.
5. These farmers are currently facing a 300% increase in fertilizer prices.

Principal Soil Types in Indian States

Here are some of the most prevalent states and places where black soil may be found:

1. Maharashtra: Much of Maharashtra has black dirt, particularly in the Vidarbha area. Nagpur and Amravati are well-known for their black cotton soil.
2. Gujarat: Gujarat’s Saurashtra region features substantial sections of Chernozem soil, notably in districts such as Bhavnagar, Amreli, and Surendranagar.
3. Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh has Chernozem soil in areas such as the Malwa region and districts such as Hoshangabad.
4. Karnataka: Northern Karnataka has a lot of Chernozem soil, especially in areas like Raichur and Bellary.
5. Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Pradesh has black soil in several areas, especially the Rayalaseema region.

In India, the different types of soil are crucial for farming. They affect which crops to grow, how much water to use, and how to use the land.

Significance of black soil

1. They are home to 2.86% of the global population and cover 17.36% of cropland worldwide. They hold 8.05% of the global SOC stock and account for 30.06% of SOC stock in global cropland.
2. They constitute 5.6% of global soils and contain approximately 8.2% of the world’s Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) stocks, equivalent to around 56 billion tonnes of carbon.
3. In 2010, Chernozem soils contributed to a significant portion of global crop yields: 66% of sunflower seeds, 51% of small millet, 42% of sugar beet, 30% of wheat, and 26% of potatoes were harvested from these soils.
4. The capacity of Chernozem soils to sequester carbon from the atmosphere into soil organic matter, known as carbon sequestration, is considered crucial in mitigating human-induced climate change.
5. If properly managed, they can contribute approximately 10% of the total SOC sequestration globally.
6. Europe and Eurasia exhibit the highest potential for SOC sequestration, estimated at over 65%. Latin America and the Caribbean have around 10%, per the FAO’s global Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration Potential map.

Colour of Black Soils

1. The presence of minor amounts of titaniferous magnetite or iron and black elements of the parent rock causes the black color.
2. In Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh, black is derived from crystalline schist and basic gneisses.
3. The soils in this group exhibit various shades of black, such as deep black, medium black, shallow black, a mixture of red and black, etc.

Also Read:

• The Ecological Pyramid: Dеfinition, Biomass, Types.
• Father of Green Revolution in India: Discover the Pioneer
• National Science Day: Notable Celebrations, Impact.

Conclusion

Looking after India’s black soil is vital for successful farming. Farmers use clever methods, like growing different crops and using natural fertilizers, to keep the soil healthy. This ensures abundant food production and safeguards the land for the future. It’s akin to preserving a valuable treasure that sustains agriculture and the environment, fostering prosperity for future generations.

Also Read- The National Fruit of India and Its Sweet Legacy

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