Formation of a Podzol

humus layer

thin black acidic mor humus (pH 3.5-4) produced from slow decomposition of coniferous needles and cones due to cold climate.

bacterial activity

limited bacterial activity due to cold climate which means the formation is slow and soil is thin.

leaching

precipitation is greater than evaporation so there is downward leaching of clays, humus, iron and aluminium which gives and ash grey A horizon.

relief

podzols are found at all elevations from sea level to the summit of the cairngorms

parent material

the C horizon is the parent material and is made up of weathered glacial material with a mixture of particle sizes and shapes.

iron pan

overtime, and iron pan can develop in the B horizon due to the deposition of iron which can then prevent drainage so the soil can become waterlogged.