Biophysical Suitability Assessment and Mapping for Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Arid Region of Deccan Plateau, India Using Farm-Scale Soil Survey Information

Abstract

The farm-scale detailed soil survey (1:10,000 scale) information was used to assess the soil-site suitability and mapping for groundnut cultivation in the arid part of the Deccan Plateau, India. Seven soil series were identified on hills/dykes, upland, and lowland. The depth of the soils of these series ranged from shallow (25-50 cm) to deep (100-150 cm), and were slightly acidic to moderately alkaline (6.3 to 8.6) but nonsaline. The texture of soils varied from loamy sand to clay and clay content ranged from 19.6 to 38.6%. The organic carbon content of soils ranged from 0.32 to 0.98%. Hillside slope soils (SVP series) of Typic Haplargids were marginally suitable (S3) for groundnut. The four-soil series (MTP, VGP, MLP, and GKP) were classified as Typic Paleargids and Typic Haplargids, were moderately (S2) to marginally (S3) suitable for groundnut cultivation. The soils of Haplocambids occupying on low land (IGR and ODC series) were marginally (S3) suitable for groundnut. Site-specific crop suitability evaluation and mapping will help to improve the potential suitability of groundnut in the region.