The natural mineral resources (hard coal, sands, dolomites, lead and zinc ores) occurred in the Silesia and the excavation of them have led to significant transformation or even degradation of the environment. The landscape of Upper Silesia was dominated by heaps created as a result of the accumulation of post-mining coal waste. These post-industrial sites are characterised by difficult conditions for the development of plant communities. Despite this, the heaps are spontaneously overgrowing and over time a separate ecosystem can be observed (for heaps). The article analyzes enzymatic activity of the substrate in relation to selected dominant grass (Monocots) and herbaceous (Dicots) plant species. The aim of this study is to compare the activity of particular enzymes in soil substratum of the vegetation patches dominated by grass and herbaceous plants.