Which of the following soil conditions are appropriate for mulberry cultivation?
(A). Well drained black soils
(B). Claye to loamy soils
(C). Porus with good water holding potential
(D). Flat, deep and fertile soil
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
- Soil Requirements for Mulberry Cultivation:
- Optimal Soil Conditions: Mulberry is a deep-rooted perennial crop requiring:
- Clayey to loamy soils: Deep, well-aerated sandy loam to clay loam soils support extensive root penetration.
- Porous with good water holding capacity: High organic matter and porosity ensure good aeration and moisture retention.
- Flat, deep, and fertile soil: Soil depth $\gt 60-80\text{ cm}$ with neutral to slightly acidic pH ($6.2-6.8$) maximizes leaf biomass for silkworm rearing.
- Exclusion: Poorly drained, heavy black cotton soils with poor infiltration are unfavorable.
- Conclusion: Soil conditions (B), (C), and (D) only are appropriate (Option 3).
Correct option: (3) (B), (C) and (D) only.