| Table 5 Comparison of podzolization and laterization in soil formation under optimal conditions. | ||
| Variable | Podzolization | Laterization |
| Climate | Cold | Warm to hot |
| Natural vegetation | Conifers | Tropical rain forest |
| Most active soil-forming microorganisms | Fungi | Bacteria |
| Raw humus | Abundant | Sparse |
| Soil reaction | Acid (pH 4-4.5) | Nearly neutral (pH 6.5-7) |
| Earthworms | Scarce | Abundant |
| Solubility of silica | Low | High |
| Iron and aluminum | Leached out of A horizon | Accumulate in A horizon |
| Hydrolysis | Weak | Intense |