Soil texture is determined by what?

Soil texture refers to the relative proportions of different-sized soil particles, specifically sand, silt, and clay. This characteristic is vital because it influences many properties of the soil, including its ability to hold water, the ease of air movement, and the availability of nutrients to plants. Sand particles are larger and tend to drain quickly, silt particles are medium-sized and retain moisture better than sand, and clay particles are the smallest and can hold a significant amount of water and nutrients due to their high surface area.

The texture affects soil behavior and how it interacts with the environment, playing a crucial role in agriculture, gardening, and ecosystem health. Understanding soil texture helps in making informed decisions about land use, crop selection, and soil management practices. Therefore, recognizing the proportions of sand, silt, and clay provides essential insights into how the soil functions in various contexts.