While certain acidic soils are found in the northern mountainous areas of Pakistan (such as Mansehra, Swat, and Dir), the majority of the country’s cultivated soils are ________________, characterized by high base saturation and typically low organic matter content (usually below 1%).

Explanation

Most cultivated soils in Pakistan exhibit both alkaline properties and calcareous characteristics, meaning they have a high base saturation due to the presence of calcium carbonate and tend to be basic rather than acidic. Organic matter content in these soils is generally low, typically less than 1%. Therefore, the correct answer encompasses both alkaline and calcareous attributes.