Question

Explain the formation and important features of the laterite soil. Mention any two crops associated with the soil.

Answer 1

Hint: In Latin, the word "laterite" signifies "brick." When they lose moisture, they become extremely hard. Laterite soils are reddish-brown in color due to the lack of clay and the presence of red sandstone gravel.

Complete answer:
Laterite soil - Laterite has been referred to as both a rock and a soil type in the past. Laterite is an iron-and-aluminum-rich soil and rock type.

The formation of the laterite soil – The laterite soil is formed by high temperatures and intense rainfall with alternate wet and dry periods, resulting in soil leaching and the removal of only iron and aluminum oxides. Because of its decreased base-exchanging capability and lower nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content, it is infertile.

Important features of the laterite soil – Acidic in character, the soils are coarser and crumblier in texture.
Laterite soils are infertile and unsuitable for cultivation due to a lack of nitrogen, potassium, and organic components. Some crops can be grown when the soils are manured and irrigated. The soils supply valuable building materials since they are indefinitely durable.

Crops associated with the soil – Laterite soils are ideal for growing tea, coffee, and cashews. Some laterites can be used to cultivate plantation crops such as tea, coffee, rubber, cinchona, coconut, and areca nut when manured and irrigated.

Note:
i) Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and the hilly parts of Odisha and Assam are all known for their laterite soils.
ii) Laterite soil is frequently utilized as a road pavement material to produce a superior sub base, road gravel, and base materials. They're also a wonderful material for building embankments.