The ideal soil for growing cotton is black soil, also known as regur soil.
Black soil's clayey nature and high water retention capacity make it particularly well-suited for cotton cultivation. This soil is rich in essential nutrients like calcium carbonate, magnesium, potash, and lime. It develops from the weathering of lava spread across large areas during volcanic activity, specifically on the Deccan Plateau.
While black soil is preferred, cotton can also be grown in laterite soil, especially if it is rich in calcium and potash.
Here's a brief comparison:
| Soil Type | Suitability for Cotton | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Black Soil | Ideal | Clayey, high water retention, rich in nutrients |
| Laterite Soil | Suitable | Requires calcium and potash enrichment |
Therefore, while black soil is the most ideal, laterite soil can also support cotton growth under certain conditions.
