podzolization
/ˌpɑdzɑləˈzeɪʃən/
noun
- The process by which soil becomes acidic and develops a gray, ash-like layer, usually in cool, wet forests.
- Farmers must add lime to counteract podzolization in sandy soils.
- Podzolization occurs naturally in boreal forests where pine needles create acidic conditions.
- The study of podzolization helps scientists understand ancient climate patterns.