Preparation of physico-chemical characterstic of soilmap using remote sensing and gis: a case study of kodaikanal taluk, dindigul District, Tamil Nadu

Soil is the loose (unconsolidated) mineral or organic matter on the surface of the earth’s crust that is capable of supporting plant growth. Soil is a major component of land system which provides a medium for plant growth. The present study deals with the “preparation of soil map in Kodaikanal Taluk, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu”. The soil characterization was carried out for parameters like pH, electrical conductivity, etc. Based on the visual interpretation and contour information from SOI (Survey of India) toposheets, a physiographic map was prepared; broadly three physiographic units were identified. Taxonomically soils were classified under Inceptisols, Alfisols, Vertisols and Entisols. Spatial distribution of soils under varied physiographic settings is mapped. Based on the morphological, physical and chemical properties of soils and related information, the soils have been classified into various soil various irrigation type, this information is very helpful in evaluation of the land and to suggest appropriate alternate land use practices.