Science · Soils
Histosol
Soils dominated by qualifying organic soil materials, excluding relevant permafrost-defined cases.
USDA Soil Taxonomy order
Profile
- Material
- Organic content and thickness criteria define the order
- Wetness
- Many are wetland soils but some are freely drained
- Density
- Usually low bulk density
- Drainage
- Oxidation can cause major subsidence
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
- Drainage subsidence
- Fire when dried
- Poor aeration when saturated
Stress signs
- Falling ground level
- Very dry combustible layers
- Anaerobic odor
Where you'll find it
- Wetland conservation
- Organic-soil hydrology assessment
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.