How to test soil for drainage - Ask Extension
How do I test soil, before I plant, to determine its drainage? I would like to be able to determine if it is well-drained or not well-drained. Than...
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How to test soil for drainage #890614
Asked December 08, 2024, 11:22 AM EST
How do I test soil, before I plant, to determine its drainage? I would like to be able to determine if it is well-drained or not well-drained. Thank you for your time.
Plants: Various flowering, native to Maryland, deciduous shrubs and holly. Location: Flat Foundation beds and a large sloped area.
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
You can perform a soil percolation test. The link is provided on our page but there is a helpful document with photos from the University of Tennessee .
If it doesn't drain well (or drains too quickly), you can use organic matter to amend they soil. There are further directions on the page we included.
If you have more questions, please let us know.
Emily
