Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

Which characteristic is NOT ideal for soil texture?

1. A balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay

2. High compaction

3. Good drainage

4. Optimal moisture retention

The correct answer is: High compaction

High compaction is not an ideal characteristic for soil texture because it can hinder root growth, reduce aeration, and restrict the movement of water and nutrients within the soil. Healthy soil should allow for sufficient space between particles to promote water infiltration and root development. In contrast, a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay is ideal, as it combines the benefits of each type of particle: sand provides good drainage, silt contributes to moisture retention, and clay enhances nutrient-holding capacity. Good drainage is also essential, as it prevents waterlogging, which can be detrimental to plant health. Optimal moisture retention refers to the soil's ability to hold an adequate amount of water for plant use without becoming overly saturated, which is also a desirable trait. Therefore, high compaction is detrimental, while the other options contribute to healthy soil conditions.