Soil Texture: Unlocking Fertility and Productivity for Better Crops

The soil texture has a significant impact on crop yield and soil fertility because it controls
root penetration, nutrient availability, and water retention—all of which are essential for plant
growth and development. This meta-analysis synthesizes data from several agroecosystems to
provide a thorough knowledge of the interactions between soil textural classes (sand, silt, and
clay proportions) and their effects on agronomic results. Sandy soils, which are distinguished
by their coarse particles, have a low capacity to hold nutrients and drain water quickly,
making frequent fertilization and irrigation necessary. On the other hand, clayey soils, which
have fine particles, are more fertile and retain more moisture, but they also present problems
including inadequate aeration and drainage, which can impede root development and cause
waterlogging. The correct ratio of sand, silt, and clay in balanced loamy soils frequently
promotes maximum productivity because of their advantageous physical and chemical
characteristics. In order to address the challenges of food security in a changing climate, the
review highlights how knowledge of the role of soil texture not only allows for targeted
management strategies catered to particular soil types, but also improves crop yields,
fertilizer efficiency, and supports sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.