Soil Classification on the Based on Particles Size

1. Sandy soil

Sandy soil contains more than 60% sand and clay. It contains very
little clay and silt, so it is porous. The size of soil particles in sandy
soil is from 0.2mm to 2.0mm. The water building capacity of a sandy
soil is very poor. Hence, there is a lot of air present in this type of
soil.

 Suitable Crops: Sandy soil is not good for plants. However,

melon and coconut grow in sandy soil. If water is available for
irrigation then crops such as maize, millets, barley can be grown in
desert soil. Cactus also grows in this soil.
2. Clayey Soil

The clayey soil consists of very fine particles of clay.

Its water holding capacity is very high. Wet clay soil is very sticky. It
contains very little air. The size of soil particles in clay size is less
than 0.2mm. Clayey soil is rich in organic matter.
 Clayey Soil

 Suitable Crops: It is also not good for many plants. It is only

good for crops like paddy, which require a lot of water. Clay is
used for making toys, pots, and many other purposes.
3. Loamy Soil

The loamy soil consists of sand, clay,, and silt. It also contains
enough hummus. It has a good water-holding capacity. It has
sufficient aeration. It is well suited for cultivation. Roots of plants get
enough water, air, and space to grow.

 Suitable Crops: Loamy soil is ideal for growing crops such as

wheat, sugarcane, cotton, jute, pulses, and oilseeds. Vegetables
also grow well in this soil.
Soil Classification on the Based on Color
1. Red soil

The red color of soil is due to the presence of iron oxide. It appears
yellow when it contains less iron or more water. Red soil contains a
mixture of clay and sand, antis not fertile. However, the soil can be
fertile by adding manures and fertilizers.

 Suitable Crops: It is suitable for growing groundnuts, pulses,

millet, cotton and tobacco.
2. Black soil

Black soil is also known as black lava soil. This soil black in color.
It is formed from lava rocks and is rich in clay.
 Suitable Crops: It is ideal for growing crops such as cotton,
sugarcane, tobacco, wheat, millets, and oilseeds.