The effect of plowing on the properties of subtropical coastal plain soils in the Southeast of the United States

A comparative analysis of virgin and plowed soils in the Atlantic Coastal Plain of Georgia (USA) has shown a considerable transformation of profile-forming soil properties and processes under the impact of agropedogenesis. The agrogenic stage of soil development is characterized by changes in soil morphology, by a decrease in the humus content and pH values, and by the residual accumulation of iron and aluminum in topsoil horizons.