Soil Permeability Index Calculator

Determine your soil’s water movement capacity with our easy-to-use permeability assessment tool

Soil Characteristics

ℹ️ Select the soil type that best matches your soil texture
ℹ️ Typical range: 1-5% for mineral soils, 20-90% for organic soils

Field Test Results

ℹ️ Measure how many inches of water soak in per hour using a simple ring test
ℹ️ Time for water level to drop 1 inch in a test hole

Your Soil Permeability Results

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Complete the form to see your results

This calculator provides an estimated permeability index based on your soil characteristics and field test results.

Soil Type:
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Permeability Class:
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Infiltration Rate:
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Drainage Time:
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Recommendations

    Next Steps

    Improve Permeability

    Recommended Products for Soil Permeability

    Espoma Organic Soil Conditioner

    This premium soil amendment improves permeability in clay soils while adding beneficial organic matter. Contains gypsum to break up compacted soil and improve water movement.

    View Espoma Conditioner Details

    Mother Earth Perlite & Vermiculite Mix

    Enhance soil drainage and aeration with this professional-grade mineral amendment. Perfect for creating optimal permeability in garden beds and potting mixes.

    View Mother Earth Mix Details

    Related Articles

    Topsoil vs Compost: Which Improves Permeability Better?

    Learn which soil amendment works best for different permeability challenges in your garden or landscape.

    Healthy Lawn Starts with Good Soil

    Discover how proper soil permeability contributes to lush, healthy turf and how to achieve it.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Soil permeability refers to how easily water moves through soil. It matters because proper permeability ensures adequate drainage, prevents waterlogging, allows roots to access water and oxygen, and affects nutrient availability. Different plants require different permeability levels for optimal growth.

    This calculator provides a good estimate based on standard soil characteristics and field tests. For precise measurements, professional laboratory testing is recommended, especially for construction or agricultural planning purposes.

    For clay or compacted soils: add organic matter (compost), incorporate coarse sand or perlite, use gypsum for sodic soils, avoid working wet soil, and consider raised beds. For severe cases, subsurface drainage systems may be needed.

    Test when establishing new planting areas, after significant soil disturbance, or if you notice drainage problems. Annual testing is good for intensive agriculture, while every 2-3 years suffices for most gardens.