Types of soil and their fetures

Soil types: The soil is classified on the basis of the proportion of particles of various sizes. The sizes of the particles in a soil have a very important influence on its properties. There are mainly three basic types of soils. These are:

i. Sandy soil: If soil contains greater proportion of big particles it is called sandy soil. This soil contains very little humus and it is found in desert areas.

ii. Clayey soil: If the proportion of fine particles is relatively higher, then it is called clayey soil. It contains mainly clay and very less humus.

iii. Loamy soil: If the amount of large and fine particles is about the same, then the soil is called loamy. It is a mixture of sand, clay, silt and humus in correct proportion.

Properties of soil: The important properties of soil are:

1. Soil contains air: The bubbles are of the air which was present in spaces between the soil particles.
2. Soil contains water or moisture: Water is always present as a thin film around the soil particles. It is absorbed through the roots of the plants.
3. Soil allows water to percolate: The process in which water passes down slowly through the soil is called percolation of water. The rate of percolation depends on the different type of soils.