The SOIL of Witmer Woods
The soils of Witmer Woods were tested in four different sights in order
to measure pH, Phosphorous, Potassium, and Nitrogen. The samples were taken
from a depth of 4 to 6 inches. The test kit used to measure the nutrient
values of Witmer Woods soils had five different categories: depleted, deficient,
adequate, sufficient, and excess.
Although the levels of nutrients found in the soils are less than desirable
for lawns and gardens, the levels are characteristic of woodland soils.
The nutrient levels of woodland soils are deceptive: the amounts, measured
in tests such as the one utilized here, are extremely low because the plants
quickly use up most of the available nutrients as they are released in the
natural nutrient cycles.
In other words, even though our findings show mostly deficient levels
of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous in Witmer Woods soils, these levels
are actually normal for relatively undisturbed soils .
Sample 1: Mowed grassy area
pH: 6.5 (slightly acidic)
Phosphorous: Depleted
Potassium: Deficient
Nitrogen: Depleted
Sample 2: Underneath a Spruce tree
pH:6.4 (slightly acidic)
Phosphorous: Adequate
Potassium: Deficient
Nitrogen: Deficient
Sample 3: Under a Maple Tree
pH: 6.7 (slightly acidic)
Phosphorous: Adequate
Potassium: Depleted
Nitrogen: Deficient
Sample 4: Beside River Vista Road
pH: 6.9 (almost neutral)
Phosphorous: Depleted
Potassium: Depleted
Nitrogen: Depleted
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