Characterization and Classification of Soils in the Southern Plateau and Hills Region of Utkoor Mandal of Narayanpet District, Telangana State, India

Abstract

Accurate soil characterisation and classification are essential for understanding soil variability and supporting sustainable land-use and nutrient-management decisions. A detailed soil characterisation and classification study was conducted in Utkoor Mandal, Narayanpet District, Telangana State, India, to evaluate the morphological, physical, chemical, and taxonomic properties of soils developed under a semi-arid tropical environment. Ten representative pedons distributed across upper pediplains, lower pediplains, alluvial plains, and stream banks were examined using standard field and laboratory procedures. Pedon depth ranged from 37 to 107 cm, and the soils displayed cambic (Bw), gleyed (Bng), vertic (Bss), and transitional (AC) subsurface horizons, indicating different stages of profile development. Textural classes ranged from gravelly sandy loam to clay, with clay generally increasing with depth. Soil pH ranged from 7.0 to 9.85, while electrical conductivity ranged from 0.05 to 0.57 dS m⁻¹, indicating neutral to strongly alkaline but non-saline conditions. Organic carbon ranged from 0.06 to 0.50%, and cation exchange capacity ranged from 3.6 to 24.0 cmol(p⁺) kg⁻¹. Based on USDA Soil Taxonomy, the pedons were classified as Entisols, Inceptisols, and Vertisols, represented by Typic Ustorthents, Typic Haplustepts, Typic Halaquepts, and Typic Haplusterts. The observed variation was associated with differences in parent material, physiography, drainage, and pedogenic processes. The findings provide baseline soil information for land capability assessment, site-specific nutrient management, soil-resource mapping, and sustainable land-use planning in the study area.