What is the field capacity for water in loamy soil?

Field capacity refers to the amount of water retained in the soil after excess water has drained away and the rate of downward movement has decreased. It is a key concept in understanding soil moisture availability for plants. For loamy soil, which is a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, the typical field capacity is in the range of 15-25%. This range is ideal because loamy soil has sufficient pore spaces to retain moisture while also allowing for adequate drainage, making it highly suitable for a variety of crops.

Loamy soil benefits from its balanced texture, enabling it to hold enough water for plants' needs without becoming waterlogged, which can diminish oxygen availability to roots. The moisture retention capacity in this range ensures that plants can access water efficiently while preventing root rot and other water-related issues. Thus, the choice indicating 15-25% accurately reflects the field capacity for loamy soil.