Loam (in geology and soil science) issoil composed mostly ofsand (particle size > 63 micrometres (0.0025 in)),silt (particle size > 2 micrometres (7.9×10−5 in)), and a smaller amount ofclay (particle size < 2 micrometres (7.9×10−5 in)).[citation needed] By weight, its mineral composition is about 40–40–20% concentration of sand–silt–clay, respectively.[1] These proportions can vary to a degree, however, and result in different types of loam soils: sandy loam, silty loam, clay loam, sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, and loam.[1]
In theUnited States Department of Agriculture,textural classification triangle, the only soil that is not predominantly sand, silt, or clay is called "loam". Loam soils generally contain more nutrients, moisture, andhumus than sandy soils, have better drainage and infiltration of water and air than silt- and clay-rich soils, and are easier totill than clay soils. In fact, the primary definition of loam in most dictionaries is soils containing humus (organic content) with no mention of particle size or texture, and this definition is used by many gardeners. The different types of loam soils each have slightly different characteristics, with some draining liquids more efficiently than others. The soil's texture, especially its ability to retain nutrients andwater, are crucial.[2] Loam soil is suitable for growing most plant varieties.
Bricks made of loam, mud, sand, and water, with an added binding material such as rice husks or straw, have been used in construction since ancient times.
Loam soils can be classified into more specific subtypes. Some examples are sandy loam, silt loam, clay loam, and silty clay loam. Different soil phases have some variation in characteristics like stoniness and erosion that are too minor to affect native vegetative growth but can be significant for crop cultivation.[3]
Loam is considered ideal for gardening and agricultural uses because it retains nutrients well and retains water while still allowing excess water to drain away.[4] A soil dominated by one or two of the three particle size groups can behave like loam if it has a strong granular structure, promoted by a high content of organic matter. However, a soil that meets the textural (geological) definition of loam can lose its characteristic desirable qualities when it is compacted, depleted of organic matter, or has clay dispersed throughout its fine-earth fraction.[clarification needed]
For example, pea can be cultivated in sandy loam and clay loam soils, but not more compacted sandy soils.[5]
Loam is traditionally widely used for the construction of houses, for example in loampost and beam construction.[6] Other techniques are e.g.rammed earth oradobe (unfired loam bricks). Loam is well known for its capalibity to control air humidty. In Countries with a high temperature like Morocco, thick walls build with loam help to keep the houses cool.[7]
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