Impact of charcoal and tree species on forest Podzol development after fire disturbance

Background and aims

Charcoal and tree species are key factors influencing forest soil development after fire disturbance. Podzolization affects nutrient availability and soil fertility through translocation of organic matter and metals. This study investigates the impact of charcoal on the podzolization and examines effects of different tree species on soil properties in post-fire sites, while evaluating the effectiveness of different soil classification systems.

Methods

Research plots were established in pure stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), European larch (Larix decidua Mill.), silver birch (Betula pendula Roth), and pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) in two variants: with and without charcoal removal after fire. Soil morphological features were described, and samples were analyzed for physical and chemical properties. Soils were classified using USDA Soil Taxonomy, World Reference Base, and Polish Soil Classification systems.

Results

Charcoal presence significantly influenced soil development, resulting in thicker surface (A and AE) horizons, higher carbon content in spodic horizons, distinct patterns of iron mobilization. Tree species exhibited varying effects: oak stands developed pronounced eluvial horizons, birch profiles showed strong iron accumulation in spodic horizons, larch stands exhibited unique redoximorphic features in charcoal-absent conditions. The classification systems showed complementary strengths in capturing these differences, particularly in profiles with groundwater influence.

Conclusion

Charcoal presence and tree species significantly influence podzol development in post-fire forest soils through effects on organic matter accumulation, iron mobilization, and horizon differentiation. The complementary use of different classification systems provides insights into soil development patterns, contributing to our understanding of post-fire forest soil processes.