Variability of profile distribution patterns of bulk density in clay loam and sandy soils

Soil bulk densities were measured with respect to depth in a clay loam and sandy soil. Coefficients of variation for the clay loam and sand plot areas (400m2) ranged from 3–9 to 15.0% and from 2.3 to 10.7%, respectively. Each of 8 sampling sites on the clay loam soil displayed distinct characteristic bulk density profiles, each varying in shape and magnitude from the other sites. The bulk density profile distribution patterns obtained from 5 sampling sites on the sandy soil did not show a large degree of individual differences. The bulk density patterns were related to soil development characteristics.