Science · Soils
Clay Loam
Heavier, fertile soil that holds plenty of water and nutrients but drains slowly and compacts under traffic.
Soil texture class
Profile
- Clay content
- ~27–40%
- Drainage
- Slow
- Water holding
- High
- CEC
- High
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Field capacity ~32–40%; wilting point ~15–20%
- Salinity tolerance
- Salts can accumulate
- Drought tolerance
- Good
Slow infiltration; use cycle-and-soak irrigation.
Problems to watch
- Compaction
- Poor drainage
- Root suffocation
Stress signs
- Standing water
- Shallow roots
- Black layer
Where you'll find it
- Older native-soil fields
- Commercial landscapes
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.