soil texture
Soil texture refers to the sizes of the primary particles in the soil and their relative proportions, i.e., the amount of sand, silt, and clay. Loam is soil having a relatively even mixture of sand, silt, and clay. Soil texture affects aeration and drainage. Examine the soil's texture by squeezing it in your hand:

• Place enough dry soil to make a small ball in the palm of your hand.
• Gradually moisten the soil while manipulating it until it becomes the consistency of putty. Avoid having excess water. You can then estimate the texture of your soil through the following guidelines:
• Sandy soils form a cast that is easily broken and has a gritty feeling.
• Loamy soils form a cast when squeezed that can be handled quite freely without breaking and is somewhat gritty.
• Clay soils form a plastic, sticky cast which is very malleable and resistant to breaking. When squeezed out between the thumb and forefinger, it will form a long, flexible ribbon.