The soil in the Mojave Desert is primarily sandy and dry, with low fertility due to the arid climate.

The Mojave Desert has sandy and dry soil that is low in organic matter, making it difficult for plants to thrive without special adaptations. The region’s extreme aridity means that water is scarce, and the soil often lacks nutrients. Despite this, many desert plants, like the Joshua tree and cacti, have evolved to survive in these conditions. The desert's soil is also prone to erosion, and the dry, sandy texture can make it challenging for agriculture. In contrast, clay-based, fertile, or waterlogged soils are not characteristic of desert environments.