Consider the following statements regarding the soil types found in the mid-hill sub-temperate zone of Himachal Pradesh: Statement I: Brown hill soils are predominantly found in areas supporting dense deciduous and coniferous forests. Statement II: These soils are generally deficient in nitrogen and phosphorus but exhibit moderate acidity due to leaching. Which of the following is correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Brown hill soils develop under moist temperate forest cover in Himachal Pradesh and are characterized by moderate organic matter accumulation, slight to moderate acidity resulting from continuous leaching, and typical deficiencies in essential macronutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. These soils are extensively utilized for apple and stone fruit horticulture across Shimla and Kullu districts. Forest soils in mountain ecosystems are highly sensitive to vegetative cover changes.