Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What type of soil is described as friable?

1. Requires humus and fertilizer to be productive

2. High in clay particles

3. Loose and of good structure and texture

4. Rich in N, P, and K

The correct answer is: Loose and of good structure and texture

Friable soil is characterized by its loose texture and good structural quality, making it easy to work with and conducive to root growth. A friable condition indicates that the soil has a well-developed granular structure, allowing for adequate aeration, water infiltration, and drainage. This quality is vital for plant health, as it enables roots to expand freely and access essential nutrients and moisture. In contrast, soil that requires humus and fertilizer, is high in clay particles, or is specifically rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium does not inherently describe the loose and well-structured properties of friable soil. Though these other characteristics can influence soil performance, they do not align with the definition of "friable." Thus, the description of friable soil as loose and having good structure and texture is essential for healthy plant growth and effective soil management.