Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What does it mean if a landscaper says that the soil at a home development site will not perk?

1. A. It will not crack in very cold weather

2. B. Water does not pass through the soil at an acceptable rate

3. C. The soil does not have proper form to resist slipping and cracking

4. D. The soil particles do not form proper aggregates

The correct answer is: B. Water does not pass through the soil at an acceptable rate

When a landscaper states that the soil will not perk, they are referring to its permeability, particularly how water moves through it. The term "perk" comes from the practice of conducting a percolation test, which measures the rate at which water infiltrates the soil. If the soil does not perk, it means water does not pass through the soil at an acceptable rate, which can lead to issues such as poor drainage, potential flooding, and difficulty in supporting plant growth. This characteristic is crucial in landscape design and management, as it directly affects irrigation practices, plant selection, and the overall health of the landscaped area. Soil that does not perk well is often heavy clay, compacted, or saturated with water, creating challenges for any development. The other options do not relate directly to the concept of permeability. The first choice focuses on soil cracking due to cold temperatures, which does not pertain to water movement. The third option discusses soil structure related to stability rather than water flow, while the fourth concerns soil aggregate formation without linking to the percolation rate. Understanding the implications of soil permeability is essential for effective landscaping and site development.