However due to shifting as a result of tree clearing the soil layer is much deeper on the down - slope at places up to 1.5 meters and quite able to sustain a thriving plant community as evidenced by the orchard. Enough soil remains on the higher slopes due to the weed coverage to regrow an open forest. There has not been a fire in the last ten years of occupation and there is no evidence of a strong fire regime normally a factor in dry scerophyll forests. The land was cleared in the 1930's and there is little for a fire to burn, although a grass fire is a possibility. This would restrict plant growth in winter.
Adequate provision has to be made for water supply in drier years.
The highest rainfall is in the summer months in both Capertee and Sofala, however that falls over fewer days than the rain falls in the winter. Not much further west, winters have the higher rainfall. Soil distribution is related to climate. This is evident in the pH, when soils under this more humid regime are acid. Burrows dot the property.