What effect does high clay content in soil have on drainage?

High clay content in soil significantly impairs drainage and retains water. This occurs because clay particles are small and compact closely together, which reduces the size of the spaces between them. Consequently, water struggles to move through the soil due to the limited porosity. As a result, when heavy rain occurs or irrigation is applied, water tends to accumulate on the surface rather than percolating down through the soil layers. This property of clay can lead to waterlogged conditions, which can negatively impact plant health by limiting oxygen availability to root systems.

Understanding the characteristics of soil types is essential for managing landscape horticulture effectively. Different soils have varying capabilities for retaining or draining water, which can ultimately affect plant selection and irrigation strategies.