Importance of Silicate Clays in Agriculture
- Nutrient Retention: High CEC clays like smectites and vermiculites hold essential nutrients (K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺) for plants.
- Soil Water Retention: Expanding clays like montmorillonite absorb large amounts of water, improving drought resistance but causing swelling.
- Soil Workability: Non-expanding clays (kaolinite, illite) are easier to cultivate but have low nutrient-holding capacity.
- Soil Cracking: Expanding clays cause cracks in dry conditions, affecting root growth and soil aeration.
This mineralogical classification helps in soil management decisions based on clay type and behavior.