Knowing What is Going on Underneath - Soil Classification

While soil taxonomy is a complicated system of information, basic soil classification is something the home gardener can easily do. Knowing the type of soil you are working with not only helps you decide what to grow when starting a garden but it can also provide answers to why existing plants are not thriving. Some classifications – for example if your soil is acidic or alkaline – will need a testing kit to confirm. But it is possible to make basic classifications of your soil with some simple tests.

The classification of soil is based on the mineral composition of the soil, as this will define its characteristics. While the mineral make-up of your soil will depend on local geology and history, you can improve the soil if after tests you find that it is not suitable for your needs. One simple soil test is to gather a handful of soil after a heavy fall of rain.

The feel of the soil is a good test of its composition, which is how you can decide how to classify it. If it feels gritty, and is hard to form into a ball, your soil is probably sandy. If your testing results in moist but powdery soil that easily forms a ball, your soil is predominantly silty. Clay soil will continue to feel quite sticky after you make it into a ball.

Next Steps to Checking the Soil in Your Vegetable Garden

The next test is to drop the ball of soil on the ground. Soil that crumbles passes the test as good soil; soil that stays in a ball shape is clay based, and will need some work. There are some easy steps to changing the texture of your soil if your testing leaves you less than happy. Adding compost to sandy soil helps it to retain moisture; grit or sand added to clay soils will help it retain oxygen, and also stop it sticking together as a muddy mess.

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