Question

The soil that is best for growing most plants is composed of

a) Clay because it retains nutrients and water tightly.
b) Sand because water drains most easily.
c) Silt because it is a medium-sized particle.
d) A mixture of sand to drain well and clay to hold nutrients.
e) A mixture of sand, silt, and clay that promotes water drainage and retention.

Answer 1

Option E: The best soil for growing most plants is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay with organic matter, providing both adequate drainage and nutrient retention, often referred to as loam soil.

Step-by-step explanation:

The soil that is best for growing most plants is e) a mixture of sand, silt, and clay that promotes water drainage and retention. Soil is composed of various components, including inorganic mineral matter of different sizes such as sand, silt, and loam, as well as organic matter, water, air, and living matter. Loam soils represent an ideal balance, with a mixture of these materials, providing both adequate drainage and nutrient retention. Loam soils contain organic material called humus, which is crucial for improving soil structure and providing necessary minerals and water to plants.

The best agricultural soils, often described as loams, are beneficial due to their well-balanced texture. They allow for proper oxygenation levels, appropriate water availability, and prevent anoxic conditions, which are detrimental to plant health. Overall, soils with a good mix of sand, silt, and clay, along with organic matter, create the most fertile environment for a wide variety of plants.