In general clay is compact and retains too much moisture, while
sandy soil has trouble holding water and is poor in nutrients
needed for plant growth. Loam and its varieties will provide you
with the best soils for your garden. Loam is simply a
combination or mixture of clay and sandy soil that seeks to
combine the strengths of both, while eliminating the weaknesses.
A good loam with retain water, but still be open enough that
flooding does not occur and plants can grow deep, strong roots.
Depending on your location a different loam will give you ideal
growing conditions. More sandy loams are best for plants that
require less water or for areas that receive above average
rainfall. Opt for a more clay based loam if your area
experiences extended dry seasons or if the plants you are
growing require large amounts of water. In addition to the
mixture of these parts all soil needs to contain organic
material and nutrients that will allow plants to grow. The best
soils will always be those that have nutrients added