Glossary

Soil texture describes the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay in the mineral soil. It influences water storage, drainage, nutrient retention, and how a mango's root zone behaves after irrigation. Texture is different from structure and cannot be permanently changed by a small addition of compost. Use it to interpret moisture observations and test results, but inspect actual drainage too: a sandy surface can still overlie a compacted or poorly draining layer.