Not all soil is created equal – and understanding the difference could help homeowners save both water and money this summer.

According to the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District, knowing your soil type is one of the most important factors in watering lawns and gardens efficiently. Different soils absorb and hold water differently, meaning irrigation schedules should vary depending on what lies beneath the surface.

The three primary soil types found in Utah landscapes are sand, loam and clay. Each responds differently to watering and requires its own irrigation approach.

One of the easiest ways to determine soil type is the “feel test.” A handful of slightly moist soil can reveal a great deal.

Sandy soil feels gritty and falls apart easily. It drains quickly and struggles to retain moisture. Clay soil, on the other hand, feels sticky and dense, forms a tight ribbon when pressed between fingers, and absorbs water very slowly. Loam – considered the ideal garden soil – feels soft and crumbly while maintaining a balance between drainage and moisture retention.

Homeowners can also try the “ribbon test” by rolling moist soil between their fingers. Soil that forms a long ribbon before breaking typically contains a high amount of clay.

For residents seeking a more precise analysis, the Utah State University Analytical Laboratory offers affordable soil testing services. Samples can be dropped off at the USU Extension Davis County Office in Kaysville or mailed directly to the USU campus in Logan.

Testing soil can help homeowners determine nutrient deficiencies and understand the natural composition of their landscape. Davis County soils are commonly alkaline and clay-heavy, conditions that can affect plant growth and watering needs.

Watering schedules should be adjusted according to soil type, officials say.

Sandy soil requires short watering cycles – typically five to 10 minutes at a time – because water drains rapidly before roots can absorb it. More frequent watering is often necessary.

Loam soil allows water to move evenly through the ground while retaining enough moisture to reduce irrigation frequency. Experts recommend applying about one-half inch of water per irrigation cycle, usually two to three times per week during the hottest months of summer. Splitting watering sessions into shorter cycles throughout the day, a method known as “cycle and soak,” can improve absorption and reduce runoff.

Clay soil absorbs water slowly but retains it for longer periods. To prevent runoff, experts recommend using multiple short watering cycles spaced throughout the day. In most cases, watering clay soil twice a week is sufficient.

Overall, landscapes generally require between 1 and 1.5 inches of water per week from June through August. Sandy soil may require watering four to six times weekly using smaller amounts of water, while loam and clay soil typically need fewer watering days with deeper soaking.

Water experts emphasize that efficient irrigation is not about using more water, but about applying it properly. Shorter, well-timed watering cycles help keep moisture in the root zone where plants can use it most effectively.