The plains are a patchwork of diverse soils, ranging from heavy clays to gravels, from shallow to deep, and from waterlogged to excessively drained. The Twyford and Hastings loams are synonymous with fruit and vegetable production, while the bony Omahu gravels of Gimblett Road, once viewed as among the poorest soils in the country, are now highly prized for viticulture. Continuous cultivation and compaction from machinery means many paddocks have not maintained their original structure or natural fertility. Careful management is essential for the land to sustain high levels of production.
More than thirty soils are listed and described. Each has its own set of characteristics, and requires its own set of management practices. Information about rooting depth, water holding capacity, drainage and susceptibility to erosion and compaction is used to provide recommendations and management guidelines for cultivation, drainage and irrigation.