The best way to understand local soil conditions is to perform a simple test. The rate water is absorbed in the soil usually will tell us alot about soil and about the kind of plants that will perform well. Nobody like to waste money on a plant that dies so this test us worth the effort.

Soil Test

1. Dig a hole large enough to hold a gallon of water
2. Fill the hole with a gallon of water
3. Determine how long it takes for the water to completely drain out of the hole
4. Compare your results below to understand your soil type.

If following chart will help you understand what soil type you are working with:

Clay                           more than 30 minutes

Sandy loom             15-30 minutes

DG                              6-15 minutes

Sand                           less than 6 minutes