Planting & SoilQuestion 35 of 100
Which practice BEST improves drainage in a heavy clay planting bed?
a.Compact the soil before planting
b.Add fine sand only in small amounts
c.Incorporate organic matter such as compost and improve grading
d.Line the bottom of the bed with plastic sheeting
Explanation
Blending compost and other organic matter into clay improves aggregation, creating larger pore spaces that let water move through. Combined with grading that directs excess water away, this relieves waterlogging. A small amount of sand can actually make clay worse by forming a concrete-like mix, and plastic traps water.
Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- When planting a container-grown shrub, the top of the root ball should be placed at what level relative to the surrounding soil?
- Gypsum is added to certain clay soils primarily to accomplish what?
- A newly planted tree needs staking. What is the correct staking practice?
- Proper plant spacing at installation should be based on what?
- A soil amendment high in nitrogen but low in decomposition, like fresh wood chips tilled into soil, can cause what short-term problem?
- Cool-season turfgrasses such as tall fescue grow most actively in which conditions?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CSLB C-27 Landscaping Trade Exam · How we review