(a) (i) Describe the physical properties of each of Specimens B (SAND), C (CLAY), and D (LOAM) (ii) To about 10ml each of the specimens B, C and D, add abou...

Answer Details

Specimens: B (SAND), C (CLAY), D (LOAM), O (WATER)

(a)(i) Physical properties of the dry specimens

(a)(ii) After adding water (specimen O) and mixing

(b) Specimen of greater value to farmers: D (LOAM)

Two reasons:

1. It has a good balance of sand, silt and clay, giving it good water-holding capacity together with good drainage and aeration.
2. It is rich in humus and plant nutrients and is easy to work, so it supports most crops well.

(c) Three ways of improving each of the other two specimens

Sand (B):

1. Add organic manure or compost to improve water and nutrient retention.
2. Add clay and apply mulch to reduce water loss.
3. Practise cover cropping and grow leguminous crops to build up humus.

Clay (C):

1. Add coarse sand and organic matter to improve aeration and drainage.
2. Apply lime to improve its structure (flocculation) and reduce stickiness.
3. Provide good drainage channels and practise deep ploughing to loosen it.