Cambisol

A Cambisol is recognised by a subsoil that shows the beginnings of change, in colour, structure, or carbonate content, without the pronounced features of more developed soils. It marks a transitional stage in which soil-forming processes have modified the parent material but have not yet produced strongly differentiated horizons.

Cambisols form where weathering and structural development have proceeded far enough to alter the subsoil but not far enough to create the strong horizons of older, more developed soils, whether because the soils are relatively young, the climate is not strongly leaching, or erosion keeps the profile refreshed. This intermediate condition is very common, so Cambisols occur extensively across temperate, Mediterranean, boreal, and mountain regions and in the tropics.

Cambic horizon

A subsurface horizon modestly altered in colour and structure, defining the Cambisol but lacking strong clay or oxide accumulation.

Texture and structure

Commonly medium-textured with moderate structure, generally supporting good rooting and workability.

Fertility

Usually reasonable, but strongly dependent on parent material, climate, and management, ranging from fertile to modest.

Variability

Because they span many settings, Cambisols are diverse, and general statements must be qualified by local conditions.

Cambisols are generally productive and forgiving, so management follows good general soil practice, adapted to the wide variation in texture, depth, and fertility across the group.

• Maintain organic matter and structure to sustain the generally good physical condition of these soils
• Base nutrient and lime applications on soil testing, since fertility varies widely across the group
• Manage erosion on sloping and mountain Cambisols, where profiles can be shallow
• Match crop choice to local depth, texture, and climate rather than to the group name alone

Their generally favourable physical condition and adequate fertility make Cambisols suitable for a broad range of crops. They are widely used for wheat, barley, and maize in temperate cropping, for potatoes and vegetables, and for grapes and other perennial crops on Mediterranean and hillside Cambisols.