Podzol

A type of soil, which is generally of a low nutrient status, especially due to leaching of the surface A horizon (thereby termed an E, eluviated, horizon). It will have a low, acidic soil pH, typically of sand and silt particles. A consequence of this is that an organic layer, mor humus, can be present above the lighter coloured first soil horizon due to reduced organic matter decomposition. These conditions are less favourable for soil micro-organism activity.

The subsoil (B horizon) will usually be darker in colour, often having an increased quantity of iron and aluminium, as well as finer soil particles and organic material, which have been leached from the surface layer. The colour of this horizon, or a fine layer where iron has leached, will typically be reddish-brown.

The main types of habitat in which podzols are present include heathlands and coniferous woodland / forests, with many golf courses having been constructed on this soil type.