Soils contain different proportions of sand, silt, and clay that make up the soils' specific texture. In general, soil textures with a greater portion of silt and clay retain more water and nutrients than those soils composed mostly of sand particles. Soil organic matter also influences soil productivity. In general, organic matter increases both the water and nutrient holding capacity of a soil. Organic matter additions to soil may also provide nutrients as they decompose or increase the tilth of the soil by amending or modifying the soil structure to promote water infiltration and root penetration.
Soil drainage is critical to plant health.
The soil's ability to hold water must be balanced with its ability to retain enough oxygen for plant growth. If soil becomes saturated for a prolonged period of time, the oxygen trapped in soil pore space can be rapidly depleted by the plant and soil organisms. When roots cannot get oxygen, the plant's ability to get nutrients and grow is impaired. Poor drainage causes more problems for landscape plants than any other factor. Soil pH, a measure of acidity, has a significant impact on the plant's ability to use nutrients.