Among common soil textures, which is most likely to have the highest water-holding capacity but slower drainage, affecting irrigation timing?

• A. Clayey soils
• B. Sandy soils
• C. Silty soils
• D. Loamy soils

Answer: (A)

Water movement in soils is shaped by texture—the size and arrangement of the pores. Clayey soils have the tiniest particles and the most micro-pores, which gives them a very high surface area to hold water. That means they can store a lot of moisture at field capacity, making water available to plants for longer periods. At the same time, those small pores restrict drainage, so water moves through slowly. For irrigation timing, this combination means you can schedule longer intervals between watering because the soil stays moist longer, but you must avoid overwatering since drainage is slow and water can accumulate. In contrast, sandy soils drain quickly and hold little water, so irrigation must be frequent; loamy and silty textures sit in between.