Podzolization - an additional paradigm

Present models of podsolization emphasize the mobilization and precipitation of dissol- ved organic matter, together with Al(-silicates) and Fe. Such models cannot explain the dominance of pellet-like organic matter in most zonal podzols, and the discrepancy between the chemistry of percola- ting organic matter (DOC) and the organic matter accumulated in podzol-B horizons. The present paper offers an explanation in which dynamics of the rooting system of the vegetation, and the decay of its litter is combined with leaching by organic acids. Such a model can explain the domi- nance of root-derived organic matter podzol-B horizons. It is suggested that organic matter derived from roots is dominant in zonal podzols while illuvial organic matter may dominate in (nutrient-poor of hydro- morphic) intrazonal podzols.