Evaluation of Soil Physicochemical Parameters across Selected Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) Cultivars

Abstract

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a member of the Sapindaceae family and is occasionally referred to as the “Queen of Fruits.” The exceptional flavor, scent, white aril, and eye-catching scarlet skin of litchi fruits make them incredibly popular. Its production is influenced by a variety of soil and climatic conditions, although scientific data on soil quality across different litchi cultivars is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical parameters of rhizosphere soils from nine litchi cultivars: ‘Shahi’, ‘Rose Scented’, ‘Dehradun’, ‘Dehra Rose’, ‘Ajhauli’, ‘China’, ‘Mandraji’, ‘Purbi’, and ‘Bombai’, which were collected from the ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar. At a depth of 0–20 cm, soil samples were taken, and their moisture content, water-holding capacity, pH, and electrical conductivity were measured. Litchi cultivars, especially Ajhauli (20.58%) and Dehradun (70%), had generally higher soil moisture content and water-holding capacity, while Rose Scented (8.9) and Purbi (0.59 dS/m) showed maximum pH and electrical conductivity. These specific cultivars highlight their significance in improving soil quality and promoting fruit development. These findings highlight the ecological benefits of litchi-based systems for sustaining soil health.