Loam vs. Humus — What's the Difference?

A soil with a perfect balance of silt, sand, and clay.

It is a critical factor in the health of the soil ecosystem.

It is generally darker than sandy soils but lighter than pure clay soils.

The organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of leaves and other plant material.

Known for its ease of cultivation and suitability for most crops.

Known for its ability to retain moisture and nutrients.

Loam often requires less fertilizer due to its inherent fertility.

Humus helps in the formation of soil structure and porosity.

Loam can be artificially prepared by mixing sand, silt, and clay in specific ratios.

It contributes to the soil's fertility by providing essential nutrients.

The definition of Loam (in geology and soil science) is soil composed mostly of sand (particle size > 63 micrometres (0.0025 in)), silt (particle size > 2 micrometres (7.9×10−5 in)), and a smaller amount of clay (particle size < 2 micrometres (7.9×10−5 in)). By weight, its mineral composition is about 40–40–20% concentration of sand–silt–clay, respectively.

In soil science, humus (derived in 1790–1800 from the Latin humus for 'earth, ground') denominates the fraction of soil organic matter that is amorphous and without the "cellular cake structure characteristic of plants, micro-organisms or animals". Humus significantly affects the bulk density of soil and contributes to its retention of moisture and nutrients.

Soil composed of a mixture of sand, clay, silt, and organic matter.

A brown or black organic substance consisting of partially or wholly decayed vegetable or animal matter that provides nutrients for plants and increases the ability of soil to retain water.

A mixture of moist clay and sand, and often straw, used especially in making bricks and foundry molds.

Variant of hummus.

To fill, cover, or coat with loam.

A smooth thick mixture of mashed chickpeas, tahini, oil, lemon juice, and garlic, used especially as a dip for pita.

(geology) A type of soil; an earthy mixture of sand, silt and clay, with organic matter to which its fertility is chiefly due.

A large group of natural organic compounds, found in the soil, formed from the chemical and biological decomposition of plant and animal residues and from the synthetic activity of microorganisms.

(metalworking) A mixture of sand, clay, and other materials, used in making moulds for large castings, often without a pattern.

Alternative spelling of hummus

To cover, smear, or fill with loam.

That portion of the soil formed by the decomposition of animal or vegetable matter. It is a valuable constituent of soils.

Made of loam; consisting of loam.

Partially decomposed organic matter; the organic component of soil

A kind of soil; an earthy mixture of clay and sand, with organic matter to which its fertility is chiefly due.

A thick spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic; used especially as a dip for pita; originated in the Middle East

A mixture of sand, clay, and other materials, used in making molds for large castings, often without a pattern.

To cover, smear, or fill with loam.

A rich soil consisting of a mixture of sand and clay and decaying organic materials

The primary benefit of adding humus to soil is its ability to improve moisture and nutrient retention, enhancing plant growth.

Humus significantly enhances soil fertility by adding essential nutrients and beneficial microorganisms.

Loam is made of roughly equal parts of sand, silt, and a smaller proportion of clay.

Loam is suitable for a wide variety of plants due to its balanced structure and fertility.

Loam can occur naturally in certain areas, or it can be artificially mixed to achieve the desired soil composition.

The soft, crumbly texture of loam allows for excellent root growth and water drainage.

Yes, loam can be artificially created by mixing sand, silt, and clay in specific proportions.

Humus can be added to any type of soil to improve its fertility and structure.

Silt in loam helps retain moisture and nutrients, making it beneficial for plant growth.

Humus is important for soil health because it improves soil structure, fertility, and moisture retention.

The formation of humus can take several years, as it involves the slow decomposition of organic matter.

Humus contributes to water retention by absorbing water and holding it within the soil matrix, beneficial during dry conditions.

Humus improves the soil ecosystem by supporting a wide range of microorganisms and enhancing biodiversity.

Loam is ideal for agriculture because it supports a diverse range of crops and requires minimal additional fertilization.

Humus is typically dark, rich, and spongy in texture.