Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Soil type affects how it retains water and nutrients.Photograph: iStock/Getty Images (Photograph: iStock/Getty Images) I often ...

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Soil color could replace expensive chemical tests, helping farmers monitor fertility and carbon faster and more safely.

Key Points High-quality soil should have good drainage and tilth, a dark color, a pleasant smell, and signs of life.Avoid soil that is compacted, visibly sandy, and shows no signs of active soil ...