Science · Soils
Andisol
Soils with specified andic properties, often formed from volcanic materials.
USDA Soil Taxonomy order
Profile
- Minerals
- Short-range-order minerals commonly important
- Density
- Often low bulk density
- Phosphorus
- Strong phosphorus retention is common
- Texture
- Order is not a particle-size class
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; measure field capacity and dry-down
- Salinity tolerance
- Not inferable from soil classification; test EC, sodicity and water chemistry
- Drought tolerance
- Not inferable from taxonomy; measure accessible storage and plant response
Soil orders and WRB groups are not textures. Determine horizon-specific retention, field capacity, drainage, rooting depth and seasonal hydrology before setting irrigation triggers.
Problems to watch
- Phosphorus limitation
- Structural damage under traffic
- Erosion
Stress signs
- Poor growth despite fertilizer
- Compacted tracks
- Surface loss
Where you'll find it
- Volcanic-region land assessment
- Nutrient planning
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.