Loam

What Does Loam Mean?

In gardening, loam refers to a soil mixture that consists of organic matter, sand, and clay. There are various types and textures of loam soils that are common among gardeners, such as sandy, clay, and silty.

Loam soil provides the ideal growing environment for many plants because it contains more humus, nutrients, and moisture than regular soil. It also provides good aeration due to its porous texture that optimizes water absorption.

Maximum Yield Explains Loam

Loam is a great planting medium for starting cannabis. The abundant nutrients present in loam give marijuana plant roots a good start in the growing process, which is why it is so highly recommended. Loam is also popular for cannabis cultivation because it drains easier than other kinds of soil and it is loose enough so roots can easily move through.

The mineral content in loam soil is usually around 40 per cent sand, 40 per cent silt, and 20 per cent clay by weight. However, these ratios can vary slightly, leading to three different types of loam soil.

As a growing medium, loam is good because it is very fertile. It has the added benefit of being sterile and free of pests. Another reason why loam is great for growing is because it is neither too acidic or alkaline. It falls in the middle of the pH scale so that it's easier to adjust the pH and support healthier plants.

Loams with a lot of organic matter can support a crop with little need for amendments. In some cases, humus is added to the loam mixture if the plot of growing soil naturally lacks bacteria. Humus for loam is made up of animal matter and decomposed vegetables.

Loam ranges from more loose and sandy to densely packed. Clay soil is often dry and packed hard but becomes slippery when damp. It can also be molded into a ball when humid. Sandy soil, on the other hand, boasts a looser texture and doesn’t hold its shape. While sandy soil does not hold water, it allows for excellent oxygenation of the root zone. Silt soil is a mixture of dry clay and sandy soil, creating a happy medium for many plants.