Characterisation and classification of grape-supporting soils of the northern dry zones of Karnataka

The soils of the Northern Dry Zone (NDZ) of Karnataka have great potential for quality grapes for their sweetness and nutraceutical properties. Nine (09) pedons occurring on different pedo-edaphic environments under grape cultivation were randomly selected, scientifically studied and analysed for characterisation and classification of the NDZ, Karnataka. The pedons studied were moderately deep to deep and had more than 30 % clay in most of the horizons, barring a few exceptions, but clay content increased in sub-soils. These soils were neutral to strongly alkaline and had relatively higher organic carbon content (0.5 % to >1.0 %) in the surface layers of pedons. The cation exchange capacity of these soils ranged from 7.7 to 47.96 cmol (p+) kg-1, mainly related to clay and organic matter content. These clayey soils were dark reddish brown/dark brown, moderate to well-drained and well aggregated with or without free calcium carbonate content and possess relevant diagnostic horizon/properties and accordingly classified as Aridic Paleustalfs, Typic Rhodustalfs, Aridic Haplustalfs, Aridic Haplusterts, Vertic Haplocalcids, Vertic Haplocambids, Vertic Haplustepts and Aridic Haplustepts. This study would help to understand the variability in soils and their pedo-edaphic properties for the delineation of suitable sites and formulation of best management practices.