Podzol

Pale nutrient-poor acidic mineral topsoil overlain with a dark peaty layer
Organic acids from vegetation result in nutrient leaching (particularly Fe/Al) from surface layers

Photograph of a podzol soil profile showing a dark organic surface layer over a pale leached horizon and reddish-brown iron-rich subsoil beneath. The soil displays strong horizon contrast typical of podzol formation. A measuring scale marked in centimetres is positioned vertically along the left side of the soil pit.

Found at higher altitudes

Map of Ireland titled “Podzols.” Green areas indicate where podzol soils are the dominant soil type, while light blue shading shows areas where they also occur. Podzols are mainly distributed in upland and coastal regions of the west, southwest, and southeast. County boundaries are outlined in grey, with a legend distinguishing dominant and associated areas.