Science · Soils
Chernozem
Dark, base-rich soils associated with grassland environments and WRB diagnostic criteria.
WRB Reference Soil Group
Profile
- Surface
- Thick dark humus-rich mineral horizon
- Bases
- High base status in diagnostic horizons
- Carbonates
- Secondary carbonates often occur at depth
- Texture
- Not a fixed texture or universal water capacity
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
- Topsoil erosion
- Compaction
- Organic matter loss
Stress signs
- Thinner dark surface
- Platy dense layers
- Poor infiltration
Where you'll find it
- Grassland soil conservation
- Agricultural landscape assessment
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.