The vigor and type of trees growing on your woodlot depends in part on the type of soil. The soil is well aerated. This allows roots to grow fast and deep. Red to light brown soil is well drained, while darker soils are more poorly drained. Spots of color indicate a fluctuating water table.
Sandy soils dry quickly and hold less nutrients.
Silt and clay soils hold too much water and plenty of nutrients. A loamy will knead like dough in your hand. Sandy soils are gritty. A deep soil allows for deep roots. Trees with deeper roots are more windfirm and more drought resistant.