C Horizon

The C Horizon is the layer of soil beneath the top layers, consisting mainly of weathered rock and partially broken-down minerals. It acts as a transition zone between the fully weathered soils above and the unaltered bedrock below. This layer has less organic matter and is less fertile, serving as a foundation for the upper soil layers. Its composition influences water movement and root growth, making it important for understanding soil stability and plant development. The C Horizon typically requires more effort for roots to penetrate compared to the more fertile upper horizons.