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Story: Kūmara

Plaggen soils

Plaggen soils

This modified soil is known as a plaggen soil. Māori gardeners sometimes added gravel and sand to create a light soil and improve drainage for growing kūmara. Borrow pits, where sand or gravel has been taken, are often found nearby.

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Private collection
Photograph by Bruce McFadgen

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How to cite this page:

Peter Adds. 'Kūmara', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 1-Mar-09
URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/kumara/2/2