Is Clay Soil Better Than Sand Soil?
- Clay soil holds minerals well, making it a nutrient-rich choice for gardening, according to Linda Chalker-Scott, PhD, professor at Washington State University. But It drains poorly and does not remain well-aerated.
- Sandy soils provide excellent aeration and drainage for growing plants, but do not hold nutrients well, according to Chalker-Scott.
- Clay and sand soils each bring their own unique advantages and disadvantages to gardening. Both soils require some type of amendment to create the best planting media for optimal growth, according to Ohio State University Extension.