In this section, you will learn: zz how soil influences vegetation and how vegetation influences soil.
Natural vegetation Soil conditions Acidity Lime
Natural vegetation refers to any plants or trees that grow on their own, naturally, without any form of human interference. The natural vegetation of any region of the Earth’s surface is related to the climate in that region.
The type of vegetation is influenced by soil conditions, and soil conditions are in turn influenced by the vegetation growing on them
: Figure 16.15 Fields in Tipperary The influence of soil on vegetation Soil influences the type of vegetation that grows in it in a number of ways:
Depth • Deep fertile soils have the ability to support a wide variety of vegetation because they have a high nutrient content.
• Shallow infertile soils are more limited in the type of vegetation that they are able to support. Coniferous forests are often planted in such areas.
Acidity • Some plants, such as rhododendrons, grow in areas with acidic soil. • However, many plants do not grow in areas with acidic soil. Farmers spread lime on the soil to reduce its acidity and make it more fertile.
Drainage • Clay soils can become waterlogged easily and farmers find it difficult to cultivate them.
• Sandy soils are well drained and have the ability to support a wide range of vegetation.
