Clay Soil

Texture: sticky when wet, hard when dry Drainage: Poor to moderate pH: 6.0–7.5 (varies)
Clay Soil - Soil

Very fine particles and tiny pores; holds water and nutrients well but drains slowly and compacts easily.

🧱 Texture, Drainage & Fertility

Texture: sticky when wet, hard when dry

Drainage: poor to moderate

Fertility: high (but locked if waterlogged)

Organic Matter: moderate

Tendencies: compaction, waterlogging, surface cracking

🧪 pH

Typical pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (varies)

✅ Best Suited For

  • Rice paddies (with standing water)
  • Many fruit trees once established
  • Leafy vegetables in dry season with raised beds

⚠️ Not Ideal For

  • Root crops needing loose soil (carrot) unless heavily amended

🛠️ Amendments & Improvements

  • Add coarse compost, rice hulls, or fine bark to improve structure
  • Create raised beds; avoid working when wet
  • Gypsum can help flocculate certain clays (non‑sodic)

🪴 Recommended Container Mix

35% compost, 35% coco coir, 30% perlite/pumice; avoid heavy garden clay in pots.

🔍 Diagnostics

Hand Test: Forms a strong ribbon >5 cm; very plastic when wet.

Jar Test: >40% clay layer; slow settling; cloudy water.

🐛 Common Issues & Fixes

  • Waterlogging and root rot: Switch to raised beds; add coarse organic matter; ensure drainage channels.
  • Hardpan formation: Deep mulch and biological tillage with deep‑rooted cover crops.

💡 Care Tips

  • Never till when wet—wait until it crumbles
  • Maintain permanent mulch to buffer wet/dry cycles

🌦️ Malaysia Notes

Heavy monsoon rain exacerbates puddling—raised beds and surface mulch are essential.

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Note

Use these profiles as practical guides. Local site conditions vary—observe water infiltration, plant responses, and adjust amendments accordingly.

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