fast soil test:

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justmeLisa Brewers, KY(Zone 6b) Nov 09, 2001

wondering what kind of soil you have? here is a simple test to see if your soil is sandy, silty, or clayey:

Start by taking a chunk of soil about the size of your thumb. Moisten it enough that you can roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball between the pad of your thumb and the side of your bent index finger. Push your thumb forward repeatedly, pressing the soil outward to form a ribbon. The longer the ribbon, the more clay is in the soil. A heavy clay will make a ribbon 1 inch (2.5cm) long; a sandy soil might not make a ribbon at all.
To confirm your findings, put the ribbon in your palm and add enough water to make a runny paste. Rub the index finger of your other hand around in the slop in your palm. If it feels gritty, the soil is sandy. If it's smooth, the soil is silty. If it's on the sticky side -- you've got clay.

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MaryE Baker City, OR(Zone 5b) Nov 10, 2001

My soil test was easier than this Lisa, I walked through it and it stuck to my shoes. My feet got bigger and heavier with every step. Definitely clay!

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justmeLisa Brewers, KY(Zone 6b) Nov 10, 2001

ahhh yes, lovely clay..lol..that is what we have here too.

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mystic Ewing, KY(Zone 6a) Nov 10, 2001

I agree with you Mary I don't have to test it.Clay for sure! Except now yours sticks to your shoes and when I take a walk through it sticks to my feet. lol And by the time I get to the door to come in I feel like big foot got so much stuck to my feet.lol

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louisa Troy, VA(Zone 7a) Nov 11, 2001

Thanks Lisa but after a walk through our soil, especially if it's wet, I know I have grown at least another 6 inches...lol!! Definitely clay!!!!

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notmartha Bay City, MI(Zone 6a) Nov 11, 2001

and now you all have dirty handz!

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louisa Troy, VA(Zone 7a) Nov 12, 2001

lol Dori!!

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Azalea Jonesboro, GA(Zone 7b) Nov 20, 2001

They are all making fun - but don't cry Lisa, I know you are right. Haven't done it but I've seen this demonstrated.

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justmeLisa Brewers, KY(Zone 6b) Nov 23, 2001

no tears azalea, i know it should be called davesgardenccrazies.com...phhhhpth

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notmartha Bay City, MI(Zone 6a) Nov 23, 2001

yes lisa it should-let see heres your name at the top of the list next to mine!!!
(((((((((((((((lisa))))))))))))))))))))=]

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justmeLisa Brewers, KY(Zone 6b) Nov 23, 2001

:-P

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