Soil texture is determined primarily by the particle sizes of the soil. Soil texture refers to the relative proportion of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil. These particle sizes affect the ability of the soil to retain water and nutrients, as well as its drainage properties. Sand particles are the largest and provide good drainage but have low water-holding capacity. Clay particles are the smallest and provide high water-holding capacity but poor drainage. Silt particles fall in between sand and clay particles in terms of size and characteristics. The combination of these particle sizes in the soil determines its texture, which is important for agriculture and other land uses. Therefore, while profile horizons, major components, and nutrient status are also important factors in soil characteristics, the particle sizes of the soil are the primary determinant of its texture.