podzol formation

• • low temperatures lead to slow decomposition
• coniferous needles and cones lead to a mor humus
• • high precipitation leads to leaching which is the downwards movement of aluminium and iron oxides, forms an iron pan between A/B
• • iron pan may impede drainage causing waterlogging
• • eluviation leaves an ash grey A horizon
• • illuviation creates a reddish brown B horizon
• limited soil biota leads to well defined horizons
• • steep slopes encourage leaching
• • shallow roots mean limited absorption of deep leached minerals and limited nutrient recycling