What Makes Loam The Ideal Soil For Gardening And Agriculture?
Loam is your best soil for gardening and agriculture because of the different soils of which it is made. The different types of soil affect how the water behaves, which then affects how much water the plants are getting. Loam is the perfect combination of the different types of soil, so it allows for the right amount of water to stay with the plants; also, the water doesn’t hang around too long, or disappear too quickly.
Loam is made up of 40 percent sand, 40 percent silt and 20 percent clay. Following, is information regarding the different types of soil, as well as how each soil’s properties work harmoniously in loamy soil to produce excellent results for gardening and agriculture.
Sandy Soil
Sandy soil is made up of large particles that allows for good aeration, so the water drains well and enough air can get to the roots of the plant, which prevents it rotting from overexposure to moisture. On its own, sandy soil may become compacted, which would not allow air to circulate but in the combination with the other two types of soil, this is solved. The sand percentage also helps the loamy soil warm up in the spring for planting, which makes it a good choice for gardening.
Clay Soil
Clay soil particles are really fine, so they hold the water and nutrients. Because of this, the clay in your loamy soil is what helps to stop the plants from drying out. Another important function that the clay element in loamy soil serves is that it is heavier than silty or sandy soils, so it does not erode as quickly if exposed to the elements.
Silty Soil
Silty soil is what makes up this wonderful combination of soils, with qualities that complement both clay and sandy soil particles. Silty soil is one of the most fertile, and is of a smooth consistency and has a good combination of organic matter and minerals. It does not stick together easily but appears to have a somewhat slippery texture.
If you have questions about different soil types or would like to bring a sample from your garden to get some help with what your soil might need for it to become more loamy, come and talk to one of the staff at Bacchus Marsh & Redgum Garden Centre today.
Comments are closed.