Märkäpohja

Märkäpohja is a type of soil in Finland characterized by its high water-holding capacity. The term "märkäpohja" is derived from the Finnish words "märkä," meaning soggy or wet, and "pohja," meaning soil or bottom. This type of soil is found in many parts of Finland, particularly in areas with high rainfall and poor drainage.

Märkäpohja is formed when peat is oxidized, often under acidic conditions, and transformed into a more humic-rich soil. This process can take thousands of years and is influenced by factors such as climate, vegetation, and topography. As a result, märkäpohja soils are typically acidic, with low pH levels and high levels of organic matter.

The water-holding capacity of märkäpohja is due to its high content of humic substances, which are capable of absorbing and retaining large amounts of water. This makes märkäpohja a valuable resource for agriculture, as it can support the growth of crops that require a steady supply of moisture. However, the soil's waterlogging properties can also make it inhospitable to certain plant species and limit its use for certain types of farming.

Märkäpohja is an important component of Finland's natural landscape, covering a significant portion of the country's agricultural land. Its unique properties make it a distinctive feature of the Finnish countryside and have significant implications for the country's agriculture and ecosystem.