Soil profiles- This layer generally forms above the mineral soil or occurs in an organic soil profile. The "O" stands for organic matter. It is a surface layer dominated by the presence of large amounts of organic material derived from dead plant and/ or animal residues which is in varying stages of decomposition.
Sand, silt, and clay (soil texture)- The look and feel of a soil is referred to as soil texture and is determined by the size and type of particles that make up the soil (including the organic but mostly referring to the inorganic material).
Sand soils- Sand particles are large= small surface area therefore. Sand drains easily, poor ability to retain moisture. Little chemical activity= little nutrient bonding
Silt soils- Silt particles= limited area surface. Little chemical activity, little nutrient bonding. May compact under heavy traffic, poor air and water movement.
Clay soils- Clay particles are small, large surface area therefore. Water adheres very well to clay, High ability to obtain moisture (however this water can be hard even impossible for the plant to use) very chemically active, good nutrient bonding.
Issues with soil and soil properties
Soil properties- All soil contain mineral particles, organic matter, water and air. the combinations of these determine the soil's properties, its texture, structure, porosity, chemistry, and color.
Issues with soil- Half of the topsoil on the planet has been lost in the last 150 years. In addition to erosion, soil quality is affected by other aspects of agriculture. These impacts include compaction, loss of soil structure, nutrient degradation, and soil salinity. These are very real and at times severe issues.