Soil chemistry change in a lowland english deciduous Woodland 1974–1991

This study outlines the results of analysis of soil samples collected from fixed quadrats located in a regular pattern across Wytham Wood. Oxfordshire, England. The site contains plots of mixed deciduous ancient woodland and more recent plantations. A previous soil study was undertaken in 1974 and samples archived. Soils were resampled in 1991 and some re-analysis of the 1974 samples was undertaken. Soils were of a wide range in types from sands to gravels with a pH range of 3.0–7.0. Results showed some decline in pH in lower horizons, but most striking was a large increase in soil nitrogen for all horizons and soil types.