Taxonomy and fertility capability assessment of the soils in the command area of Edamalayar project

Abstract

In the present investigation attempt has been made to evaluate the morphological, physical and chemical characteristics of eight soil series occupying in command area of Edamalayar irrigation project. Out of these eight soil series selected for study, three were located In uplands consisting of well drained soils represented by Thodupuzha, Punnamattom and Velappaya series. The remaining five soils characterised by imperfectly drained paddy lands, occupy the valley between the undulating laterite hills namely, Mulamthuruthy, Kothamangalam, Ikkanadu, Ayyanthole and Konchira. Profile pits were dug at these different locations ' and examined for their morphological features. Soil samples representing the different horizons were collected for laboratory. studies. The physico-chemical characteristics of the soil profiles were investigated with a view to study the interrelationship between the various properties and to relate these characteristics to the genesis of these soils. Surface samples collected from different locations under each series were also analysed for available nutrients and other fertility parameters to arrive at fertility capability classifications.