Soil texture
(i) It is a qualitative classification tool used in both the field and laboratory to determine classes for agricultural soils based on their physical texture.
(ii) The classes are distinguished in the field by the 'textural feel' which can be further clarified by separating the relative proportions of sand,silt and clay using grading sieves:
(iii) The class is then used to determine crop suitability and to approximate the soils responses to environmental and management conditions such as drought or calcium (lime) requirements
