How can you test for soil drainage?

Testing for soil drainage is crucial for understanding how well water can flow through the soil, which affects plant health and growth. The correct method is to observe how quickly water absorbs in a hole after it has been filled. This technique involves digging a hole, filling it with water, and then monitoring how rapidly the water level drops.

A fast drainage rate indicates well-drained soil, while slow drainage suggests the potential for waterlogging, which can harm plant roots. This method directly evaluates the physical properties of the soil, such as texture and structure, that influence drainage.

The other methods listed do not effectively measure drainage. Measuring soil pH gives information about the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, which affects nutrient availability but not drainage. Checking soil temperature provides insights about growth conditions rather than how water moves through the soil. Examining the color of the soil may indicate its composition but does not offer direct information on drainage capabilities. Therefore, the most reliable way to assess soil drainage is by observing water absorption in a filled hole.