Testing Soil Texture - Mason Jar Soil Test

Summary

In this video, Joe from Grow a Building explains how to determine the proportions of sand, silt, and clay in your soil using a simple, step-by-step process. By preparing a soil sample, straining it, and using a mason jar with water and dishwashing detergent, you can easily separate and measure these particles. Joe also discusses how to interpret your results using the USDA soil pyramid and provides tips for improving soil based on your findings. Whether you're dealing with drainage issues or aiming to improve soil for gardening, this test offers useful insights for better soil management.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video demonstrates how to determine the exact percentages of sand, silt, and clay in your soil using a simple, step-by-step process.
• 😀 You will need basic tools like a shovel, buckets, a kitchen strainer, mason jars, powdered dishwashing detergent, and a tape measure or ruler to perform the test.
• 😀 Start by digging a soil sample, mixing it well, and sieving out rocks and compacted particles to ensure accuracy in your results.
• 😀 Fill a jar halfway with sifted soil, add water (about 75-80% full), and a tablespoon of powdered dishwashing detergent to help separate soil particles.
• 😀 Shake the jar vigorously for about a minute to ensure proper mixing and separation of the soil particles.
• 😀 Let the mixture settle for two hours to identify the silt layer, and up to two days for the clay particles to settle.
• 😀 Mark the sand layer after 60 seconds, the silt layer after 2 hours, and the clay layer after several days (sometimes 3-4 days).
• 😀 To calculate the percentages of sand, silt, and clay, measure the height of each layer and divide by the total height of the sample.
• 😀 Use the USDA Soil Texture Triangle tool online to interpret the results and determine your soil type based on the percentages of sand and clay.
• 😀 If your soil is too sandy or too clay-heavy, amend it with compost to improve its texture and drainage. For sandy soil, compost improves water retention; for clay soil, it improves drainage.
• 😀 The video also provides advice on composting, top dressing your garden, and how to prevent water retention issues when working with heavy clay soil.

Q & A

What is the purpose of this soil test?

The purpose of this test is to determine the exact percentages of sand, silt, and clay in your soil, helping you understand its texture and drainage properties. This information can guide you in improving soil quality for better plant growth.

What materials are required for the soil test?

You'll need a shovel or spade, a bucket, a common kitchen strainer, a mason jar or any jar with vertical walls, powdered dishwasher detergent, a tape measure or ruler, and a marker.

Why is it important to sift the soil through a strainer?

Sifting the soil through a strainer helps separate any large particles, like rocks or compacted clumps, ensuring more accurate test results. It also prevents issues caused by compacted soil affecting the measurement of sand, silt, and clay.

How much soil should I collect for the test?

You should collect a cross-section of soil at least six inches deep. The amount of soil you need for the test should fill your jar halfway or about 50-75 millimeters, depending on the jar size.

What role does the powdered dishwasher detergent play in the test?

The powdered dishwasher detergent helps to separate soil particles by breaking down clumps and reducing surface tension, allowing sand, silt, and clay to settle into distinct layers.

How long should I shake the jar after adding water and detergent?

You should shake the jar vigorously for about one minute to ensure the detergent thoroughly mixes with the soil and the particles are separated.

When should I mark the different soil layers in the jar?

You should mark the sand layer at 60 seconds after shaking, the silt layer at two hours, and the clay layer after two to four days, as clay takes the longest to settle.

How do I calculate the percentage of sand, silt, and clay in the soil?

To calculate the percentages, measure the height of each soil layer (sand, silt, and clay) and divide it by the total height of the sample. Multiply the result by 100 to get the percentage for each type of soil.

What is a common soil texture classification based on the results?

Using the USDA soil texture pyramid, you can classify your soil as sandy, loamy, or clay-heavy based on the percentage of sand and clay in the sample. For example, a balance of sand, silt, and clay can indicate sandy loam.

How can I improve my soil if it’s too sandy or too clayey?

If your soil is too sandy, you can amend it with compost to improve its water retention. If it’s too clayey, adding organic matter like compost can help break up the compacted soil and improve drainage.