What property is characteristic of soils in the B horizon?

The B horizon, also known as the subsoil, is primarily characterized by a higher concentration of clay and minerals that have leached down from the layers above it. This accumulation of materials often leads to increased stickiness and cohesiveness, which can significantly affect soil behavior and plant interactions. The presence of clay in the B horizon means that it can be less permeable than the layers above, but it frequently contains enough nutrients and moisture to support plant root penetration. Roots often delve into this layer because of the nutrient uptake that can occur there, making it crucial for plant health.

In contrast, options referring to sandy or silty compositions, organic material density, or high permeability do not accurately describe the typical characteristics of the B horizon. Soils in this layer generally have a greater proportion of clay, leading to the sticky texture mentioned, rather than being sandy or porous.