Soil is the foundation of every garden. Understanding its properties, nutrient content, and management is crucial for plant health and productivity. Healthy soil provides plants with water, nutrients, and support, while poor soil can hinder growth, reduce yields, and make plants more susceptible to pests and diseases. Gardeners must pay attention to soil composition, structure, pH, and fertility to create optimal growing conditions.
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There are three main soil types: sandy, clay, and loam. Sandy soil drains quickly but struggles to retain nutrients, while clay soil retains water but may become compacted, limiting root growth. Loam is considered ideal because it balances drainage, aeration, and nutrient availability. Testing soil texture, drainage, and pH helps gardeners choose suitable plants and amendments. Most plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil, typically with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
