Which of the following soil is most suitable for tree crops like cashewnut ? 

The correct answer is Red Laterite soil.

Key Points

• Red laterite soil is rich in iron and aluminium, which are essential for the growth of tree crops like cashewnut.
• This soil type is well-drained and porous, providing an ideal environment for deep-rooted trees to thrive.
• Red laterite soils are typically found in regions with high temperatures and heavy rainfall, such as the coastal areas of Kerala, Karnataka, and Odisha.
• The soil's high acidity and low fertility can be managed with appropriate agricultural practices, making it suitable for specific crops like cashewnut.

Additional Information

• Soil Types in India:
  • Black Soil: Rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, potash, and lime; suitable for cotton cultivation.
  • Arid Soil: Found in arid regions; low in organic matter and moisture, suitable for drought-resistant crops.
  • Alluvial Soil: Fertile soil found in river basins; ideal for crops like rice, wheat, and sugarcane.
• Cashewnut Cultivation:
  • Requires well-drained soils with good water-holding capacity.
  • Prefers tropical climates with high humidity and temperatures between 24°C to 28°C.
  • Cashewnut trees are drought-tolerant and can thrive in marginal soils with proper management.
• Laterite Soil Characteristics:
  • High iron and aluminium content.
  • Porous and well-drained, making it suitable for tree crops.
  • Commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions with heavy rainfall.