Lacking elements which are needful or desirable, and therefore capable of absorbing these to a great extent; ‘more disposed to draw from other…

Of soil: poor in quality; spec. lacking nutrients or minerals in quantities sufficient for substantial or sustained growth of vegetation.

Mineralogy. Harsh and dry to the touch; containing little organic material; (of limestone) containing many impurities (opposed to fat). Obsolete.

Free from, destitute of, worms.