Loam

Loam is soil composed of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter, with particles of various sizes, evenly mixed. Loams are gritty, plastic when moist, and retain water easily. They generally contain more nutriment than sandy soils.

Compacted soil intended for cultivation can be made more loamy by turning under organic material such as manure, compost, or previous crops when the ground is prepared for the next growing season; it is not necessary to add sand as it will find its own way in as the organic materials decay. This enrichment process must be repeated every year until the aeration and nutrient qualities of the soil is permanently improved.

See also: humus