How to determine the type of soil on a site: if you don’t do this, all your efforts will go down the drain

28.07.2024 10:31

Every summer resident should take care of determining the type of soil, if they have not done so before, since this factor largely determines the type of irrigation, and therefore the growth of plants.

In this article you will find several ways to help you achieve your goal.

Clay soils

These soils absorb moisture slowly and retain it for a long period of time. Hence the conclusion: plants that live in clay soil should be watered rarely, but abundantly.

To determine whether the soil is clayey, take a soil sample from a depth of about 20 centimeters with a shovel. If the soil crumbles in your hands, this indicates dry soil that requires frequent and abundant watering.

Sandy soils

They differ from clay soils in that they absorb water very quickly. To find out whether the soil on your site is sandy, you will have to test the soil again.

Earth
Photo: © Belnovosti

If the soil ball crumbles easily when dropped from a height of one meter, this indicates moderate soil moisture. In dry conditions, such soil should be watered more often than usual.

Soils with good moisture

When a lump of soil rolls easily and does not stick to your hands, this indicates good soil moisture. Frequent watering is not necessary in this case.

Soils with optimal moisture

If the lump of soil sticks to your hands, this indicates sufficient humidity. In this case, it is recommended to water the plants once a week.

Soils with high moisture content

If the lump of soil is sticky and water oozes out when pressed, then it is clear that the soil you are dealing with is too wet. If your test shows exactly this result, do not water the area more often than once every two weeks.

Author: Elena Shimanovskaya Editor of Internet resources

Content
  1. Clay soils
  2. Sandy soils
  3. Soils with good moisture
  4. Soils with optimal moisture
  5. Soils with high moisture content