Soil profile

Definition

A soil profile is the vertical section from the surface down to the underlying parent material, showing all of its horizons in order. Digging a pit or taking a spade-deep block is the standard way to examine one, and it reveals root depth, colour changes, structure and signs of waterlogging. Comparing a profile with a similar soil under good management helps separate real degradation from natural limits such as shallow or stony ground. See also: Soil horizon, Parent material, Soil structure, and the guide "How to Observe and Assess Your Soil, and Where to Find Public Data".