GEOLOGY
The ground underlying most of West Philadelphia is a hard rock called schist. 

Through the natural process of weathering, schist forms a rich, acid soil which supports the growth of dense forests.  This made Philadelphia an excellent home for both Native Americans and early Colonialists.  After clearing the forests, crops grew well in the rich soils

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REFERENCES

 

PLANT SUCCESSION

SOILS

More information about the geology of Philadelphia

Land Transformed: Early Settlement in West Philadelphia