Silty soil Silty soil is made up of fine grains, originally deposited by a river. The tiny particles give it a silky feel if rubbed between the fingers. It does not form distinct shapes like clay when wet, but it can be rolled into sausage-like strips. Silty soils can be badly drained but are not prone to waterlogging. Peaty soil The fens of eastern England are very peaty and are some of the country's best farmland.
Plants grow happily in it, as long as they can adjust to the relatively acid conditions.
Almost black to look at, easy to dig over and spongy to the touch, peaty soil can be soaking in winter and bone dry during most of the summer. Sandy soil Sandy soil feels rough and gritty when handled and will not form distinct shapes like clay. It usually has a sandy brown colour and is easy to dig over. Send your problems to our experts or read their answers to other gardening questions. Read tips from fellow gardeners.