Podzolization

Podzolization is a natural soil process that occurs mainly in forested areas, where acidic rain and organic acids from plants cause minerals like iron, aluminum, and clay to be leached or washed downward. Over time, this leaves the upper soil layer depleted of nutrients and enriched in lighter, weathered material, creating a distinct layered soil profile. The process results in a soil called podzol, characterized by a gray, ash-colored top layer and a more clay-rich, darker zone below. This process affects soil fertility and is common in cool, humid climates with dense vegetation.