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The UC Guide to Healthy Lawns

Soil types


Many soils lack the nutrients or organic matter that a lawn needs to thrive. A professional soil analysis can supply you with the information you will need to determine your soil type and can provide information on what to add to improve your soil.

 

 

 

Classifications of soil
Soil type
Characteristics
Sandy
  • Nutrient-poor soil
  • Dries out quickly
Loamy
  • Best soil for growing turf
  • Drains well
  • Able to retain important nutrients
Clay
  • Tightly compacted soil
  • Does not drain well


Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California
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