Sand is a granular material composed of finely divided rock and mineral particles. It is a crucial component of soil, affecting its texture and drainage properties.
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Sand particles are larger than silt but smaller than gravel, typically measuring between 0.05 to 2 millimeters in diameter.
High sand content in soil improves aeration but may reduce its nutrient-holding capacity.
Sandy soils drain quickly, which can affect plant water availability.
Sand does not retain moisture well, often requiring more frequent irrigation for plants.
Soils with high sand content are often referred to as 'light soils' due to their ease of tillage.
Review Questions
What particle size range defines sand?
How does sand content affect soil drainage and aeration?
Why might plants in sandy soil require more frequent watering?
Related terms
Silt: A soil particle size category that is smaller than sand but larger than clay, typically between 0.002 to 0.05 millimeters in diameter.
Clay: The smallest soil particle size category, less than 0.002 millimeters in diameter, known for its ability to retain moisture and nutrients.
Loam: A balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay that provides ideal conditions for plant growth due to its good drainage and nutrient retention properties.