🌦️ Climate and Soil Requirements for Horticultural Crops
Climate and Soil Requirements for Horticultural Crops.
Crop performance in horticulture depends strongly on matching each crop to the right climate and soil, because temperature, rainfall, light, and soil properties directly control growth and quality.
Climatic Factors Affecting Horticultural Crops
Temperature
| Crop Group | Optimum Temperature | Chilling Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical fruits | 25-35 degree C | Not required |
| Subtropical fruits | 15-25 degree C | Low (100-500 hours) |
| Temperate fruits | 5-15 degree C | High (800-1600 hours) |
| Warm season vegetables | 20-30 degree C | Not required |
| Cool season vegetables | 15-20 degree C | Not required |
Rainfall
- Most horticultural crops require 750-2500 mm annual rainfall.
- Excess rainfall during flowering causes poor fruit set in mango and litchi.
- Drought stress during fruit development reduces size and quality.
- Well-distributed rainfall is more beneficial than heavy intermittent rains.
Light
- Photoperiod influences flowering in crops like Chrysanthemum (short-day).
- Light intensity affects photosynthesis, colour development in fruits, and flower pigmentation.
- Shade-loving crops include Anthurium, Orchids, and Cardamom.
Humidity
- High humidity favours disease incidence (fungal infections).
- Low humidity increases transpiration and water stress.
- Relative humidity of 60-80% is ideal for most horticultural crops.
Soil Requirements
Ideal Soil Characteristics
- Well-drained soils are preferred for most horticultural crops.
- pH range of 5.5-7.5 suits the majority of crops.
- High organic matter content improves soil structure and water-holding capacity.
- Good aeration is essential for root development.
Soil Types and Suitable Crops
| Soil Type | Characteristics | Suitable Crops |
|---|---|---|
| Sandy loam | Good drainage, low fertility | Watermelon, Muskmelon, Carrot |
| Loamy | Balanced texture, fertile | Mango, Citrus, most vegetables |
| Clay loam | High water retention | Banana, Rice-based cropping |
| Red laterite | Acidic, well-drained | Cashew, Pineapple, Jackfruit |
| Black cotton | High clay, poor drainage | Pomegranate, Sapota, Cotton |
Summary Cheat Sheet
| Factor | Exam-Focused Point |
|---|---|
| Tropical fruits | Best at 25-35 degree C |
| Temperate fruits | Need chilling, often 800-1600 hours |
| Ideal soil pH | Usually 5.5-7.5 |
| Best texture | Well-drained loam for many horticultural crops |
| Humidity target | Around 60-80% for most crops |
References
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References
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