State Landscaping Practice Exam

Sandy soil is known for its rapid drainage capabilities due to its coarse texture and larger particle size. The composition of sandy soil allows water to flow through it more easily compared to other soil types. This is because the larger particles create larger spaces, or pore spaces, between them, enabling water to pass through quickly. As a result, sandy soil retains very little moisture, making it ideal for plants that prefer well-drained conditions and are more tolerant of drought.

In contrast, clay soil contains much finer particles that are tightly packed, leading to slow drainage and the retention of water. Silt soil falls somewhere between sand and clay, having moderate drainage abilities, while loamy soil, which is a mixture of sand, clay, and silt, provides balanced drainage and moisture retention. Therefore, sandy soil consistently stands out as the type that drains the fastest, making it the correct answer.