Soil subtypes classified in Nature Reserve Arboretum Mlyňany, Slovakia

Abstract

Main aim of this work was soil classification in Nature Reserve Arboretum Mlyňany. In Arboretum
locality were dug nine soil pits and in detail characterized soil properties. Near each pit were made
3 soil bores which were analysed only for selected chemical properties. It was found that on the
majority of Arboretum area was soil forming substrate loess without carbonates on which was
developed Stagni-Haplic Luvisol. Carbonate loess was found at north part of area with East-
Asiatic dendroflora, where was developed Haplic Luvisol. Cultivated Stagni-Haplic Luvisol
was classified on the area with North-American dendroflora, which was until 1975 used as a
vineyard and homogenization characters of ploughing horizon are still clear. Compared to the soil
under the rest of natural Oak-hornbeam forest (control), anthropically changed type of vegetation
significantly influenced soil chemical properties mainly in humus horizons. The heterogeneity of
soil properties was also caused by heterogeneous soil forming substrate, different way of soil use
before trees planting, and earth works during Arboretum establishment.