Free Certified Horticulturist Soils and Media Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which soil texture has the highest water retention capacity?

Accepted Answer

Clay

Answer

Sand

Answer

Silt

Answer

Loam

Question 2

What is the ideal pH range for most horticultural crops?

Accepted Answer

5.5–7.0

Answer

3.0–4.5

Answer

7.5–9.0

Answer

8.0–10.0

Question 3

Which soil amendment is best for increasing drainage in heavy clay soil?

Accepted Answer

Perlite

Answer

Peat moss

Answer

Vermiculite

Answer

Compost

Question 4

Which component of potting media provides aeration and prevents compaction?

Accepted Answer

Sand

Answer

Coir

Answer

Peat moss

Answer

Vermiculite

Question 5

What is cation exchange capacity (CEC) in soil?

Accepted Answer

The soil’s ability to hold and exchange nutrients

Answer

The soil’s ability to retain and release water

Answer

The soil’s ability to support root growth

Answer

The soil’s organic matter content