Silty Soil

Texture: silky, slippery when wet Drainage: Moderate pH: 6.0–7.5
Silty Soil - Soil

Fine particles smoother than sand but larger than clay; feels silky, holds moisture and nutrients moderately well.

🧱 Texture, Drainage & Fertility

Texture: silky, slippery when wet

Drainage: moderate

Fertility: moderate to high

Organic Matter: moderate

Tendencies: surface sealing, erosion when bare

🧪 pH

Typical pH Range: 6.0–7.5

✅ Best Suited For

  • Leafy greens
  • Brassicas
  • Many herbs and ornamentals

⚠️ Not Ideal For

  • Plants requiring excellent drainage unless mixed with sand/organic matter

🛠️ Amendments & Improvements

  • Add compost and coarse materials to prevent crusting
  • Keep covered with living plants or mulch to reduce erosion

🪴 Recommended Container Mix

40% compost, 40% coco coir, 20% perlite; add 10% sand if drainage is still slow.

🔍 Diagnostics

Hand Test: Forms a weak ball; smooth feel; short ribbon <2.5 cm.

Jar Test: Dominant silt layer with smaller sand and clay layers.

🐛 Common Issues & Fixes

  • Surface crust inhibiting seedling emergence: Mulch lightly and water with a fine rose; add organic matter.

💡 Care Tips

  • Avoid bare soil—use cover crops or mulch
  • Irrigate gently to prevent capping

🌦️ Malaysia Notes

Use mulch to shield from intense tropical downpours that cause crusting and runoff.

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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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