GROUP OF SANDY LOAMS AND FINE SANDS. 
45 
CHAPTER IV. 
GROUP OP SANDY LOAMS AND PINE SANDS 
PLAINFIELD FINE SAND 
Tlie type is of limited extent and is confined chiefly to the 
eastern half of the county where it is often associated with Co- 
loma fine sand. 
The surface soil of this type to a depth of 6 to 8 inches con¬ 
sists of a brown or yellowish brown fine sand underlain by a 
yellow fine sand to a depth of over 3 feet. Quite a few gravel 
stones are sometimes found. The type is usually free from 
gravel as well as stones. Some deep well borings show red clay 
and it is possible that most of the type may be underlain by 
such material. 
The surface is level or very gently undulating and where the 
watertable is not close to the surface, the natural drainage is 
excessive. 
The Plainfield fine sand is of alluvial origin and has been de¬ 
posited as outwash plains or valley fill. A large proportion of it 
came from glaciated sandstone material though there is some 
crystalline material also mixed in. 
The native timber growth consisted chiefly of oak and white 
pine with some poplar. 
A large proportion of this type is being cultivated, but be¬ 
cause of its limited extent and low agricultural value, it can be 
classed with the soils of minor importance. 
General farm crops are grown and cucumbers and buckwheat 
are also raised to some extent. Dairying is the leading indus¬ 
try. • 1 ' ! 
As with the other Plainfield sandy types, the soil is deficient 
in organic matter and mineral plant foods. These must be sup¬ 
plied if marked increased yields are to be secured.* 
* See page 50 for chemical composition. 
