College of Social Sciences, Theology, Humanities, and Education
Institute of Theology and Religious Studies
Report 1
Name: Jose Rei Lunda
ID: 210255
TITLE Assessment of Soil Texture and Color Characteristics
METHOD The hand texturing technique was employed to determine soil texture, while
the Munsell Soil Color Chart was utilized to evaluate soil color.
OBJECTIVES
To classify the soil samples' textural class using the hand texturing approach.
To measure the soil color by applying the Munsell Soil Color Chart.
To explore how soil texture and color influence agricultural productivity and
environmental management.
To gain practical experience in soil analysis techniques.
INTRODUCTION Soil texture is defined by the relative proportions of sand, silt, and
clay particles, affecting the soil's physical behavior, including its ability to retain
moisture, drain water, and support root growth. Soil color serves as an indicator of its
composition, organic content, and drainage status. The hand texturing method provides
a tactile means of identifying soil texture by assessing the soil's behavior when moist.
The Munsell Soil Color Chart offers a standardized system to describe soil color in
terms of hue, value, and chroma. This practical aimed to analyze soil samples using
these methods to better understand soil properties and their practical applications.
MATERIALS
Collected soil samples
Clean water
Munsell Soil Color Chart
Disposable gloves
Recording materials (notebook and pen)
PROCEDURE
1. Gather soil samples from two distinct locations.
2. Determine soil texture as follows: a. Moisten a small soil sample until it is
pliable. b. Apply the hand texturing method to classify the soil's textural class. c.
Note observations based on the soil's ball and thread formation and its tactile
feel.
3. Evaluate soil color using the Munsell Soil Color Chart: a. Compare the moist
soil sample to the chart. b. Determine the hue, value, and chroma of each
sample. c. Document the results systematically.
4. Interpret and compare data to assess soil characteristics and potential uses.
SOIL SAMPLE PATTERN RESULTS
Sample 1: The soil formed a fragile ball with a sandy texture and minimal
adhesion. Classified as Loamy Sand (LS). Munsell color: 10YR 4/3 (Brown).
Sample 2: The soil formed a stable ring with a smooth, soapy feel. Classified as
Silty Clay (ZC). Munsell color: 7.5YR 5/6 (Strong Brown).
Sample 3: The soil produced a non-cracked ring, exhibited extreme stickiness,
and was difficult to work. Classified as Clay (C). Munsell color: 5YR 3/4 (Dark
Reddish Brown).
Sample 4: The soil rolled into a short, sturdy cylinder with a sandy feel and
adhered to fingers. Classified as Sandy Loam (SL). Munsell color: 2.5Y 6/4
(Light Yellowish Brown).
Sample 5: The soil formed a ball with a cracked U-shaped thread and a sandy
texture. Classified as Sandy Clay Loam (SCL). Munsell color: 10YR 5/8
(Yellowish Brown).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The practical analysis identified a broad spectrum of
soil textures and colors, reflecting diverse soil characteristics. Loamy Sand (Sample 1)
offers excellent drainage, making it suitable for well-aerated crops. Silty Clay (Sample
2) can retain moisture effectively but may pose drainage challenges. The Clay sample
(Sample 3) indicated high water retention but reduced permeability. Sandy Loam
(Sample 4) is adaptable for various agricultural uses due to its balanced properties.
Sandy Clay Loam (Sample 5) strikes a moderate balance between drainage and nutrient
retention. Soil color variations, from brown to dark reddish-brown, denote differences
in organic matter and mineral contents.
CONCLUSION The experiment confirmed that both the hand texturing method and the
Munsell Soil Color Chart are effective tools for assessing soil properties. The outcomes
of this practical provide essential insights into how soil characteristics influence land
use decisions and crop management.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Improve drainage in clay-rich soils by adding organic matter.
Favor sandy soils for crops that thrive in well-drained conditions.
Perform regular soil assessments to monitor and manage soil quality effectively.