Soil Type and Water Absorption

The Lawn Institute brings us an article and chart about soil types and water absorption.

"Water soaks in at different speeds, depending on the composition of your soil type. If you know your basic soil type, use the following table as a general guide to watering. (Soil test kits and instructions are usually available at lawn and garden centers, and at better hardware stores. Soil test services and information are often available through your local County Extension office).

Soil Type Sand Sandy Loam Loam Silt Loam Clay Loam Clay

Infiltration Inch Per Hour 2.0 inches 1.0 inches 0.5 inches 0.4 inches 0.3 inches 0.2 inches

Time For 1 Inch To Soak In 0.5 hours 1.0 hours 2.0 hours 2.25 hours 3.3 hours 5.0 hours

There are two techniques that will help water absorb into the clay soils more effectively. The first is through the use of a core aerifier. The aerifier is rolled over a lawn, where it inserts metal tines into the soil and removes small cores of grass and soil. The small holes left behind make it easy for water to move down into the soil. They also give grass roots room to grow. An aerifier can be rented for a nominal fee at most equipment rental outlets.

The second technique is to use a chemical called a surfactant, or wetting agent, which reduces the tension surface of the water. This "wetter" water will run more freely into the soil. Apply the surfactant at the manufacturer's recommended rate. Both of these techniques can be used at the same time. They can be very effective on sloping terrain where run-off is a problem."