Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Plate 18.3
Cracks in dry clay allow rapid infiltration of any
precipitation or irrigation water. However, the cracks will
close up as the clay expands on rewetting.
Photo: Ken Atkinson.
Table 18.3 Storage capacity of soils (cm water/
30 cm soil depth)
Soil texture
Field capacity
Wilting point
Available water
Sandy loam
5·6
2·8
2·8
Loam
8·4
4·3
4·1
Clay loam
9·9
5·3
4·6
Heavy clay
11·9
6·3
5·6
