What is soil texture primarily concerned with?

Soil texture primarily refers to the relative amounts of different sizes of mineral particles that make up the soil, specifically sand, silt, and clay. The proportions of these particle sizes influence various soil properties and behaviors, such as water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability. A soil with a higher proportion of sand will be more coarse and better-draining compared to clay-rich soil, which tends to be denser and holds more moisture. Understanding soil texture is essential for effective horticultural practices, as it affects plant growth and the selection of appropriate species for planting.

While the other options touch on attributes related to soil, they do not define soil texture itself. The color of soil types can provide insights into organic matter content and mineral composition but does not pertain to texture. Soil temperature variations could impact plant growth but are influenced by factors such as texture and structure rather than defining them. Lastly, soil drainage capability is influenced by texture, particularly the proportion of sand versus clay, but is not the primary focus of soil texture itself. Thus, recognizing the importance of particle size distribution is fundamental in understanding soil texture and its implications in horticulture.