What does the term "soil texture" refer to?

The term "soil texture" specifically refers to the size and distribution of soil particles. It is determined by the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay within the soil. Understanding soil texture is crucial because it affects various soil properties, including water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability. For instance, sandy soils drain quickly and may not hold nutrients well, while clay soils can retain moisture but may become compacted, affecting root growth.

In comparison, the color of soil, its nutrient content, and moisture levels are important characteristics that influence plant growth and soil health but do not define the texture. Soil color can indicate organic matter content or drainage conditions, nutrient content relates to how much food is available for plants, and moisture level pertains to the water-holding capacity of the soil. However, these factors do not directly describe the physical makeup of the soil particles, which is what "soil texture" specifically addresses.