Silt

Silt is physically weathered and is created when rocks are broken down by water and wind. In contrast, clay is made through chemical weathering.

The role of Silt in Vineyards

Silt is made of mainly feldspar and quartz. It is a sedimentary material that is deposited by moving water in rivers, lakes, oceans and is especially prevalent where river deltas empty into larger bodied of water.

When it is compressed for a period of time, it turns to siltstone. Also known as flagstone, these rocks are often used in construction and in gardens.

Silt is more water retentive than sand but less water retentive than clay. By definition, silty soils contain more than 80% silt.

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