Typical Characteristics:

Formation: Mollisols form by the accumulation of calcium-rich organic matter. In the Midwestern United States, these soils formed in the dense root system of prairie grasses.
Physical Traits: The surface horizon of Mollisols is deep and rich in calcium, magnesium, and organic matter. The soil is often dark in color and has a soft texture. The CEC of these soils is more than 50% saturated with calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and magnesium. These soils can contain swelling clays that have poor drainage.
Productivity: Mollisols are naturally highly productive soils.

Moderately Weathered, Fertile Soils of Maui:

There are many soil series that fall into the order of Mollisols on Maui. The Paia Series is one series that has agricultural importance.

Location: The Paia eries is located in the isthmus of Maui, among which the majority of the island’s Mollisols moderately-weathered, fertile soils are located. The Paia Series comprises of 5,600 acres in the uplands, with elevations ranging between sea level and 1,000 ft.
Texture: Silty clay
Rainfall and Temperature: The average annual rainfall is between 25 and 40 inches, and the average annual temperature is approximately 73 degrees F.
Slope: Gentle to moderate
Parent Material: The Paia Series formed from weathered basic igneous rock, and some volcanic ash.
Depth: Surface layer is very deep and extends 19 inches. Subsoil is 41 inches in depth.
Physical Traits: The soil is well-drained with slow to medium runoff and moderate permeability.
Color of Surface Horizon: Dark reddish brown
Fertility: The Paia Series is naturally high in plant nutrients, such as calcium.
Acidity: mildly alkaline
Natural Vegetation<: ilima, kiawe, lantana, among others.
Agricultural Use: Irrigated sugarcane.