Book 29, Question 120
Should you mix sand into clay soil?
Many people think adding sand loosens clay, but the opposite can happen.
Small amounts of sand mixed into clay can make something like concrete. You would need enormous amounts of sand to change it. Compost and leaf mold are better, because they open up clay and add nutrients. Adding organic matter year after year slowly improves soil.
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Quick answers
Should you mix sand into clay soil?
Sand is low in both water- and nutrient-holding capacity and causes finer silt or clay soils to compact.
Source: Oregon State University
More fun facts
- Soil texture is determined by the proportion of sand, silt and clay particles in the soil.
Sources: Oregon State University