Soil Texture Calculator

Soil Texture Calculator

Soil Texture Calculator is a practical tool designed to classify soil types based on the relative proportions of three key mineral components: clay, sand, and silt. By inputting the percentages of clay and sand, this calculator estimates the soil texture class using the USDA Soil Texture Classification System.

How It Works

Users input two values:

  • Clay (%): The percentage of clay particles in the soil sample
  • Sand (%): The percentage of sand particles in the soil sample

The calculator then computes the missing value, Silt (%), using the formula:

Silt % = 100 − Clay % − Sand %

This ensures that the sum of all mineral particles always equals 100% and that the input data remains consistent.

USDA Soil Texture Triangle

The calculated composition of clay, sand, and silt is then assessed using the USDA Soil Texture Triangle, a standardized model widely used in soil science. This triangle defines twelve distinct texture classes, each representing a specific balance of mineral particles:

  • Sand
  • Loamy Sand
  • Sandy Loam
  • Loam
  • Silt Loam
  • Silt
  • Sandy Clay Loam
  • Clay Loam
  • Silty Clay Loam
  • Sandy Clay
  • Silty Clay
  • Clay

Each texture class has unique characteristics that influence critical soil behaviors such as water retention, aeration, nutrient availability, and tillage suitability.

Why Use This Calculator?

This tool provides a fast, intuitive, and accurate way to determine soil texture without manually referencing the triangular diagram. It’s particularly useful for:

  • Gardeners planning plant selection and irrigation
  • Farmers managing crop performance and soil amendments
  • Researchers and soil analysts conducting field assessments

The Soil Texture Calculator enables data-driven decisions by translating raw soil composition into actionable agronomic insights. It integrates seamlessly into broader soil testing workflows and supports sustainable land management practices.