Loam vs. Humus — What's the Difference?

The definition of Loam (in geology and soil science) is soil composed mostly of sand (particle size > 63 micrometres (0.0025 in)), silt (particle size > 2 micrometres (7.9×10−5 in)), and a smaller amount of clay (particle size < 2 micrometres (7.9×10−5 in)). By weight, its mineral composition is about 40–40–20% concentration of sand–silt–clay, respectively.

In soil science, humus (derived in 1790–1800 from the Latin humus for 'earth, ground') denominates the fraction of soil organic matter that is amorphous and without the "cellular cake structure characteristic of plants, micro-organisms or animals". Humus significantly affects the bulk density of soil and contributes to its retention of moisture and nutrients.

Soil composed of a mixture of sand, clay, silt, and organic matter.

A brown or black organic substance consisting of partially or wholly decayed vegetable or animal matter that provides nutrients for plants and increases the ability of soil to retain water.

A mixture of moist clay and sand, and often straw, used especially in making bricks and foundry molds.

Variant of hummus.

To fill, cover, or coat with loam.

A smooth thick mixture of mashed chickpeas, tahini, oil, lemon juice, and garlic, used especially as a dip for pita.

(geology) A type of soil; an earthy mixture of sand, silt and clay, with organic matter to which its fertility is chiefly due.

A large group of natural organic compounds, found in the soil, formed from the chemical and biological decomposition of plant and animal residues and from the synthetic activity of microorganisms.

(metalworking) A mixture of sand, clay, and other materials, used in making moulds for large castings, often without a pattern.

Alternative spelling of hummus

To cover, smear, or fill with loam.

That portion of the soil formed by the decomposition of animal or vegetable matter. It is a valuable constituent of soils.

Made of loam; consisting of loam.

Partially decomposed organic matter; the organic component of soil

A kind of soil; an earthy mixture of clay and sand, with organic matter to which its fertility is chiefly due.

A thick spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic; used especially as a dip for pita; originated in the Middle East

A mixture of sand, clay, and other materials, used in making molds for large castings, often without a pattern.

To cover, smear, or fill with loam.

A rich soil consisting of a mixture of sand and clay and decaying organic materials