2 Red Soil
Red soil lack nitrogenous material, phosphoric acid and organic matter but rich in iron and
potash. It is mainly seen in the state of Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and
Maharashtra. They are mainly formed due to the decomposition of ancient crystalline rocks
like granites and gneisses and from rock types rich in minerals such as iron and magnesium.
The term ‘red soil’ is due to the wide diffusion of iron oxides through the materials of the soil.
Suitable for rice, millets, tobacco and vegetables (also groundnuts and potatoes at higher
elevations)