How can you tell what kind of soil you have just by squeezing it?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How can you tell what kind of soil you have just by squeezing it?

The Big Idea

You can be a soil detective with just your hands! Squeeze some damp soil and feel it. The feel tells you what kind it is.

Sand

Step one: Sand. Moisten a handful of soil and squeeze. Sandy soil feels gritty and falls apart.

Silt and Clay

Step two: Silt and Clay. Silty soil feels smooth, like flour. Clay soil feels sticky and can be rolled into a ribbon.

Loam

Step three: Loam. If it makes a ball that holds together but crumbles with a poke, it is probably loam. Loam is a good mix of sand, silt, and clay. The feel tells you how water and air will move.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Sand is gritty. Silt is smooth. Clay is sticky. Loam holds, then crumbles.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Loam is often the best soil for gardens. A longer ribbon means more clay. Sandy soil drains water quickly. Always wash your hands after touching soil.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Collect soil from three places. Add a little water to each. Do the squeeze test on each one. Write down how each feels. Wash your hands when you are done.

Outro

You can tell soil type by squeezing it: sandy soil is gritty and falls apart, silty soil is smooth, clay is sticky and makes a ribbon, and loam holds together but crumbles. Science is amazing! Remember, every big discovery starts with a small question. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep asking why! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!