Woodland soils are often very different from those found elsewhere. This is partly due to origin (they were where people chose not to farm or build), and partly due to history (little or no ploughing, fertilising, liming). The resulting soils can be layered, patchy and complex, and they are likely to be alive with fungi, insects, microbes and worms.
While soils may be one of the most critical elements in an old wood’s ecology, they are difficult to identify positively.
The presence of other ancient woodland features plus abundant fungi in autumn or other observations that point to a lack of disturbance (steep slopes, difficult access, and rocky outcrops) can be associated with their presence.
Where to find them
- Take a precautionary approach, if there is no evidence that soils have ever been ploughed, excavated or disturbed in other ways, then assume that they are undisturbed
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