Science · Soils
Sandy Clay
Clay-rich texture containing substantial sand; not equivalent to freely draining sandy soil.
Mineral soil texture
Profile
- Clay
- Clay matrix strongly affects retention
- Structure
- Aggregation controls usable pores
- Workability
- Can become hard dry and sticky wet
- Testing
- Laboratory texture distinguishes sandy clay from sandy clay loam
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
- Poor aeration
- Hard-setting surface
- Wet traffic damage
Stress signs
- Ponding
- Hard clods
- Shallow roots
Where you'll find it
- Soil-based landscapes
- Drainage and amendment assessment
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.