Our forests and ancient woodlands contain some of our oldest, most varied and most carbon-rich soils. In fact, there is more carbon in forest soils in Great Britain than in the trees themselves. A soil can tell you a huge amount about the forest above it - both past and future. It acts as a critical indicator of woodland health and a repository of important archaeological and historical evidence accumulated throughout the ages.
A platform for discussion, innovation and technical support for farmers seeking to adopt sustainable, environmentally positive soil management practices.
Want to do a soil test in your forest? How to do a Soil Test without a Soil Testing Kit.
Includes a link to a report on afforested peat that helps identify the opportunities for restoration of afforested deep peat and for prioritising restoration efforts.
The Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) is the quality assurance standard for woodland creation projects in the UK, and generates independently verified carbon units.
Information from Forest Research about soil quality in relation to greenspace creation.
Forest Research studies into the use of 'soil-forming materials' in the creation of new wooded areas.
What are the best options for planting trees on brownfield sites with compacted soil?
Information from Forest Research about their research into the effects of harvesting practices on soils.
Information from Forest Research about their research into soil carbon and nutrient dynamics in relation to new woodland planting.
Information on translocating ancient woodland soils provided by the HS2 Learning Legacy.
Information relating to woodland soil assessment & management provided by the Scottish Government.
An issue of the Woodland Trust's Woodwise magazine from 2016 featuring a series of articles on woodland soils.
A series of articles on how to look after the soil in your gardening patch, from how to test it to how to protect it in the winter months.
Find out more on green manures, what they are and why they're great for soil health.
Six ground rules for preparing the soil in your gardening patch.
An easy guide to knowing your soil type, to help you choose the right plants for your garden and maintain them in good health.
uksoils is a consortium of scientific, campaigning and awareness raising organisations, all with a specialist knowledge of soil health, founded by UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Sustainable Soils Alliance, Earthwatch and University of Sheffield.