Characterization, Classification and Suitability Evaluation of Banana Growing Soils of Pulivendla Region, Andhra Pradesh

Six pedons, three on inter-hill basin (P1, P2 and P3) and three on gently sloping uplands (P4, P5 and P6) of Pulivendla region were characterized, classified and evaluated for growing banana crop. The pedons on inter-hill basin are moderately shallow to very deep, very dark grayish brown clay to dark reddish brown to dark red sandy clay loam to clay loam soils. The pedons of gently sloping uplands are moderately shallow to deep, dark brown to dark yellowish brown clay to dark reddish brown to dark red sandy clay to gravelly clay soils. Soils of P1 and P4 were classified as very fine, calcareous Vertic Haplustepts. Soils of P2 and P3 were classified under fine-loamy, Typic Rhodustalfs and Typic Paleustalfs. Soils of P5 and P6 were classified as clayey-skeletal/fine, calcareous, Typic Haplustafs. The pedons P2, P3 and P6 are moderately suitable, whereas P1, P4 and P5 are marginally suitable for banana cultivation.