Which of the following soil textures would likely have the lowest soil fertility?

Soil fertility is often influenced by the texture of the soil, which affects its ability to retain nutrients and moisture. Sand, characterized by its large particle size and low surface area, tends to have the lowest soil fertility among the textures listed.

This is primarily because sandy soils have a rapid drainage rate, making it difficult for them to retain vital nutrients. The larger particles mean that there are fewer sites for nutrients to adhere to, resulting in leaching, where soil nutrients are washed away with water. Additionally, sandy soils typically have a lower capacity for holding moisture, which can further hinder plant growth and nutrient availability.

In contrast, loam, silt, and clay soils offer a better balance of drainage and nutrient retention. Loam is often considered ideal for agriculture due to its stability and nutrient-holding capacity, while silt has finer particles that can retain more moisture. Clay, although it drains poorly, holds nutrients effectively because of its high surface area. Thus, when considering soil textures in relation to fertility, sandy soils emerge as the least fertile option.