# Is Loam a Mixture of Soil?
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Sand
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Sand has large particles that do not pack together tightly. The texture is relatively coarse. Sandy soil drains very well, which means that gardens may need more frequent watering to keep plants properly hydrated. Nutrients are not retained well, so additional fertilizer may be needed. Soil aeration is good, allowing plants to develop root systems easily.
Clay
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Clay soil has small particles that pack together readily. This is a fine-textured soil. It does not drain readily, so plants may become waterlogged. Clay retains nutrients well, though the density of the soil may retard root development and make it difficult for plants to take up the nutrients.
Silt
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Silt had medium-sized particles and a floury texture. It is produced by gradual weathering of more dense materials, such as rocks. Silt is easily carried by water, so it is especially common near rivers and in floodplains. It holds more water and nutrition than sand but is less dense than clay.
Testing Soil
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It is possible for gardeners to have their soil professionally tested, but several at-home methods yield good results. Experienced gardeners can often determine soil content by rolling a small ball of wet soil in their hands and observing its response to pressure. A somewhat more accurate method involves placing a soil sample in a mason jar and adding water until the jar is almost full. The sample should be taken from about 6 inches below the surface of the soil and should measure about two cups. Cover the mason jar and shake the soil and water mixture thoroughly. Then let the jar sit undisturbed for two or three days. The soil will settle in layers, which will be easily visible through the glass. Sand will collect on the bottom of the jar, with a layer of silt just above. Clay will be the top layer. Any organic material will float on the surface of the water.
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