Clay soil is a type of soil that is made up of very fine particles. These tiny particles are tightly packed together, which makes clay soil dense and heavy. It retains moisture well, meaning it can hold water for a long time, but this can also lead to poor drainage. Because of its texture, clay soil can be challenging to work with for gardening and farming. When wet, clay soil becomes sticky and can be molded easily, while it hardens when dry. This soil type is often found in areas with low drainage, such as riverbanks and floodplains. Plants that thrive in clay soil include willows and cattails, which can tolerate its unique conditions.