Soil is weathered bedrock sitting on top of the bedrock Soil…What is it? Dig down and this is what you might see! Notice the layers… Has he dug down to bedrock yet? Soil is weathered bedrock sitting on top of the bedrock

Soil…how does it form? Start with bedrock Weathering and biologic activity break down bedrock, starting at surface Layers of sediments form called _________ Horizons Dig down far enough and still hit_________ Bedrock

Soil... Not just dirt! BEDROCK Soil Profile Horizons O Organic A Topsoil B Subsoil C Partly weathered bedrock BEDROCK What’s down here?

Soil... For growing stuff! BEDROCK Soil Profile O and A Horizons are fertile B and C subsoil not fertile Nothin’ grows here! BEDROCK

Soil... Different Types IF the SOIL Minerals MATCH BEDROCK DO NOT MATCH BEDROCK RESIDUAL TRANSPORTED

Soil…in different climates Cold, Dry Climates… Soils are thin, not fertile Not very much weathering In Humid Climates Soils are thicker, more fertile More weathering We have thick, fertile soils in Dutchess County. Adirondacks has thin, infertile soils

Soils... Not just dirt! 1. Describe how soil forms 2. Layers that form in the soil are called… 3. Which soil horizon is best for growing plants? 4. What type of climate would have the thinnest soils? Explain..