In soil classification, what is clay loam primarily composed of?

Clay loam is primarily composed of a balanced mix of clay, silt, and sand, whereby it has a higher proportion of clay compared to sand. This composition creates soil that has both good water retention and adequate drainage, making it suitable for a variety of plants.

In the case of clay loam, the presence of high clay contributes to the soil's ability to hold nutrients and moisture while still allowing for some effective drainage due to the sand present. This makes clay loam an ideal choice for agriculture and gardening, as it combines the benefits of different soil types.

The other options do not fit well with the general understanding of clay loam. For instance, a mixture characterized by low clay or high sand would not be able to provide the same water retention and nutrient-holding qualities, which are hallmark benefits of clay loam. Therefore, understanding the higher clay and medium sand content is crucial to recognizing the unique properties of clay loam in soil classification.