Variability of Soil Properties along Selected Transects in Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve, Philippines

Abstract
A study was conducted to determine the variability of soil properties along selected transects in Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve, Laguna, Philippines. Samples were taken from seven pedons at the northeastern slope, and six pedons at the southern slope. Morphological properties of soils were investigated in situ. Samples were analyzed for their chemical and physical properties. Four landscape positions were identified at the northeastern slope: interfluve, seepage slope, transportational midsope, and colluvial footslope. At the southern slope, three landscape positions were established: interfluve, transportational midslope and colluvial footslope. Soils at the interfluve in both transects had deep soil profiles with low bulk densities and high organic matter. Soils at the seepage slope have argillic horizons, higher soil pH, exchangeable bases, and base saturation. Lithologic discontinuities were observed at the transportational midslope. Soils at the colluvial footslope of the southern slope have higher soil pH, OM content, exchangeable bases, CEC, and base saturation compared to soils at the northeastern slope. Soils at the northeastern slope were classified as Andisols, Inceptisols, Entisols, Ultisols, and Alfisols. On the other hand, soils at the southern slope were classified as Andisols, Alfisols, and Inceptisols.