Question:
Which of the following type of soil is the best for plant growth?
Which of the following type of soil is the best for plant growth?
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Loam is the "goldilocks" soil of agriculture and forestry: it drains well enough to prevent root rot while holding onto vital water and nutrients.
Updated On: Jul 10, 2026
- Sandy soil
- Clay
- Gravel
- Loamy soil
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Verified By Collegedunia
The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil texture determines the water-holding capacity, aeration, drainage, and nutrient availability of a growing medium, which directly influences plant root development and overall growth.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Sandy soil has large particles with excellent drainage and aeration, but it cannot retain water or essential nutrients well.
- Clay soil has extremely fine particles that bind water and nutrients tightly, but it suffers from poor drainage and low aeration, which can suffocate plant roots.
- Gravel consists of coarse stones and is completely unsuitable for holding moisture and nutrients.
- Loamy soil is a balanced mixture of sand (\approx 40%), silt (\approx 40%), and clay (\approx 20%). It combines the aeration and drainage benefits of sandy soil with the nutrient and water retention capabilities of clay, making it the ideal substrate for plant root development and growth.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Loamy soil is the best soil type for supporting optimal plant growth.
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