The Art of Natural Forest Practice |
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Dig some holes to reveal the soil profile. Add to this knowledge as opportunity arises, eg excavating rides, transplanting trees, soil erosion. |
What’s special about woodland soil? When we talk about most aspects of the woodland- soil is mentioned. Why? Because soil is what plants grow in. It governs the forest ecosystem and is thus an important indicator of woodland health. Soil can also be a good guide of the age of your woodland, indicating whether it originates from the prehistoric wildwood or is planted on what was previously land used for agriculture. This may be significant, for example whether nutrient levels are too high or too low and mycorrhizal fungi are present to stimulate tree growth. It’s amazing how often the soil is abused; through ignorance, clear cutting, clearings that are too big letting in too much light and air, trampling by human feet, compaction by machinery, fuel spillage, acidification from conifers (whereas broadleaves tend to sweeten the soil), impervious agricultural pan, agricultural run-off, etc, all of which damage plant roots and can take decades to recover. So watch out. Map the soils in your woodland as an extension of the Habitat Jigsaw.
Go into your woodland and dig holes to reveal the top and sub-soil. (usually spade depth). Observe the colour and texture and how thick are the layers (where it came from gives a clue). If necessary seek advice. Test the pH, note how far the tree roots penetrate; and whether mycorrhiza and Honey fungi (Armillaria spp.) are present. Transplanting young trees provides a good opportunity to do this. As the soil types become evident, draw a map (example opposite). describe the geography of each area eg. wet/ dry, calcareous (limestone), shallow/ deep, north facing, etc. The jigsaw pieces will reflect the flora (including trees) of each area; bramble for example, is one of the few plants to grow on badly compacted or polluted soil. The purpose of this FAQ is to provide a start, enabling you to enquire further. Soil is a huge subject that is frequently overlooked and is a particularly difficult question to answer, as a review of the literature will reveal. Comment on this page is therefore especially welcome. I am especially grateful for the advice and comment given by Bob, Lucy and Paul. Reference has been made to- Soil by G. V. Jacks 1954 c
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Soil survey map made by the owner showing the diversity of soil communities. Keep a record of each hole for ease of reference.
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