Soil

The soil in your woodland will determine the types of trees and plants that will be able to grow.

Soil is produced as rocks break down over time and other materials collect. It supplies water, nutrients and minerals necessary to plant and animal life. Earthworms, insects and animals enrich the soil and help to keep it loose.

Soil Types
Soil type refers to its texture. Soils are usually described as sand, silt, or clay. An equal mixture of all three is referred to as loam.

How well drained a soil is refers to how water moves in the soil in relation to the water table. The type of soil is directly related to drainage. Clay soils hold water; sandy soils allow water to easily pass through. Boggy areas occur when the water table lies above the surface of the soil.

Soil Profiles
A soil profile refers to the different soil layers (horizons).

Resources

NSDNR Woodlot Management Home Study Program
- Online or Mail
Module 7 - Woodlot Ecology

The Natural History of Nova Scotia
Volume 1 - Topics & Habitats
Habitats include major ecological environments that provide homes for many species of plants and animals. $35.00
Nova Scotia Museum Books
1-800-632-1114