Soil permeability is the rate at which water and air can move through the soil. Soils with high permeability, like sandy soils, allow water to pass through quickly, while soils with low permeability, such as clay soils, retain water longer but may have poor drainage. Soil permeability affects plant growth by influencing root health, water availability, and the potential for nutrient leaching. Proper management of permeability is essential in agriculture and landscaping.