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To Determine Soil Texture
Step 1 (Get and moisten sample)
Use the triangle to determine the soil texture of your horizon.
Place some soil from a horizon (about the size of a small
egg) in your hand, and, using the spray mist bottle, moisten
the soil. Let the water soak in and then work the soil
between your fingers until it is the same moisture throughout.
Once the soil is moist, try to form a ball. If the soil
forms a ball, go on to Step 2. If
the soil does not form a ball, go to Step
5.
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| Step 2 (Test for Clay)
A. If the soil:
- Is really sticky
- Hard to squeeze
- Stains your hands
- Has a shine when rubbed
- Forms a long ribbon (5+ cm) without breaking,
Call it a clay and go to Step
3.
B. If the soil:
- Is somewhat sticky
- Is somewhat hard to squeeze
- Forms a medium ribbon (between 2-5 cm)
Call it a clay loam and go to Step 3.
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C. If the soil is:
- Soft
- Smooth
- Easy to squeeze,
- At most slightly sticky,
- Forms a short ribbon (less than 2 cm)
Call it a loam and go to Step 3.
D. If the soil forms a ball but no ribbon, go to
Step 4.
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If you wish download the protocol above so that you can
use it in the field, here are pict files soil
texture page 2.
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