Factors controlling spatial distribution of soil acidification and Al forms in forest soils

Abstract

Soil acidification and Al release in forest soils is controlled by a number of factors, like acid deposition, forest type, parent rock, altitude, etc. This paper studies the principal stand factors affecting spatial distribution of the content of KCl-extractable Al (Al KCl, mainly exchangeable), Na 4P 2O 7-extractable Al ( Al Na 4 P 2 O 7 , mainly organically bound), and other soil characteristics related to acidification in surface organic (O) and subsurface mineral (B) horizons in the Jizera Mountains region. Geostatistical methods were exploited. The highest Al KCl contents in the O horizons were related to high S and N content, low pH and low Ca and Mg content in soil. Liming decreased Al KCl contents in the O horizons. Al Na 4 P 2 O 7 in the O horizons was more abundant under spruce than under beech; in both horizons it was increased on the immission clear-cut areas populated by grass. Surface horizons are more sensitive to external influence (acid deposition, liming) and their spatial variation is stronger. In the mineral horizons, the effect of pedogenetic processes is more important. The effect of stand factors on Al behaviour is complex and often indirect, mediated for example by organic matter or soil reaction. It is difficult to clearly distinguish the effects of the particular factors.