Why Sandy Soil Repels Water and How to Fix It

Question: Coastal NC sandy soil. Water runs off, forms puddles, doesn't soak in. Soil raked, not compacted. Some areas dry, others moist 6-8 inches down. Same soil type, reasonable shade.

Cause

Dust and very fine particles coat water droplets. Once water pools, it overcomes dust and absorbs. Steady rain eventually saturates; watering may not provide enough volume except in pooling areas.

Solutions

• Spray soil wetting agents to speed absorption.
• Incorporate organic matter into soil.