Science · Turfgrasses
Clay Profile
Clay-rich surface or subsurface layers; measure each layer rather than assuming a uniform profile.
Clay-rich profile descriptor
Profile
- Depth
- Clay may occur below a different surface texture
- Mineralogy
- Not all clay is expansive
- Flow
- Cracks can bypass the fine-pore matrix
- Roots
- Aeration and mechanical strength constrain rooting
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; measure field capacity and dry-down
- Salinity tolerance
- Not determined by this label; measure EC and relevant ions
- Drought tolerance
- Depends on usable storage, rooting depth and vegetation
Measure retention, infiltration and layer depths in place. Texture or construction labels do not define a universal irrigation threshold.
Problems to watch
- Perched water
- Smearing under traffic
- Shrinkage cracks
Stress signs
- Persistent wet zones
- Dense smeared layer
- Large dry fissures
Where you'll find it
- Profile diagnosis
- Drainage planning
More turfgrasses
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.