Formation of Gley soil

limited vegetation produces a thin acidic mor humus

low temperatures cause a slow rate of decomposition

heavy precipitation/snow melt causes waterlogging

this is found on flat surfaces as relief can cause drainage problems

cold temperatures and waterlogged conditions mean few organisms can survive. waterlogging causes poorly defined layers.

shallow roots limit the recycling of minerals

parent material is impermeable rock or clays can impede drainage

waterlogged soil creates anaerobic conditions, meaning iron compounds are changed from red brown to blue, due to oxygen being extracted by micro organisms.

soil drying out in summer leaves oxygen pockets. this allows re-oxygenation of the iron in the soil causing a red mottling effect.

freeze that weathering takes place causing large chunks of angular rock to be brought up to the A and B horizons.