Brown Earth

A type of soil which is usually fertile, having adequate supplies of phosphorus and potassium, as well as organic matter to aid cation exchange capacity, and is common in grassland and deciduous woodlands. Humus will typically be of the mull type, but the moder type, which is less decomposed due to reduced soil fauna and micro-organism activity, will also be present in some cases.

The A horizon will typically be a dark brown colour, having good soil structure, abundant micro-organism activity, be slightly acidic to neutral, and have good soil aeration for root growth. Earthworm activity can also be good within the A horizon, helping to break down organic matter and create good soil crumbs. The B horizon will typically be fairly well drained, lighter brown in colour, being less nutrient rich and with reduced organic matter content but offering a good profile for root development.

These are the types of soils that are good for agriculture and where they are on a sandier basis are suitable for sports pitches, especially football and rugby, that have been marked out on these natural soils. Typically, though these pitches will need artificial drainage installed to help cope with play over the winter period, especially in wetter parts of the UK, or where usage is relatively high. These soils can also from the basis for good parkland golf courses.