Podsols Flashcards
(14 cards)
Where are Podzol soils typically found?
In cool temperate climates like Northern Europe, Canada, and Russia, mainly in coniferous forests and heather moorland.
What climate conditions lead to the formation of Podzols?
High precipitation where leaching exceeds evapotranspiration.
What type of parent rock do Podzols often develop on?
Acidic rocks, such as sandstone or clay.
Why are Podzol soils acidic?
Due to acidic leaf litter and development on acidic parent rock.
What is found in the O horizon of a Podzol soil?
Acidic leaf litter from conifers and heather.
What are the characteristics of the A horizon in Podzols?
Thin, nutrient-poor, and heavily leached of minerals.
What is the E horizon in Podzol soils like?
Pale, sandy, and leached of iron and aluminium.
What happens in the B horizon of Podzols?
Iron and aluminium accumulate, creating a reddish layer and possibly an iron pan.
What is an iron pan, and what impact does it have on drainage?
A hard, water-resistant layer that causes poor drainage and waterlogging.
Why are Podzol soils not ideal for arable farming?
They are acidic, nutrient-poor, and prone to waterlogging, leading to poor crop yields.
What does farming on Podzols require to improve soil conditions?
The addition of lime (to reduce acidity) and fertilisers.
What type of farming is possible on Podzol soils?
Some grazing is possible, but it’s limited due to poor soil conditions.
Why is forestry a common activity in areas with Podzols?
Because Podzols support coniferous trees, which are adapted to the soil.
How does the cold climate affect tree growth in Podzol areas?
It slows growth, and trees may take up to 100 years to mature.
