Dallas County Soil Data

Dallas County, Alabama

Avg pH

5.3

Texture

Sandy Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.5%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Dallas County, Alabama

Dallas County's River-Valley Acidity

Dallas County's soil has an average pH of 5.33, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.21. However, it still falls well below the national 6.5 median, suggesting a need for lime in many agricultural applications.

A Balanced Blend of Soil Textures

The soil mix features 54.7% sand, 25.3% silt, and 16.6% clay. This composition offers better nutrient retention than sandier neighboring counties while still providing enough drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Strong Water Capacity for Crops

The available water capacity is 0.133 in/in, which is very close to the Alabama state average of 0.138. While organic matter is 1.48%, below the state average, the soil's structure provides a solid foundation for plant health.

Water Management in the Black Belt

Specific drainage classes are not listed, but the mix of silt and clay indicates moderate drainage qualities. This makes the county versatile for both row crops and pasture land, provided water is managed during wet seasons.

Prime Growing in Zone 8b

Dallas County resides in Hardiness Zone 8b, allowing for a long growing season of southern staples like collards and pecans. With a Soil Score of 20.1, your land is well-positioned for a successful and productive garden.

Soil Composition

Sandy Loam
Sand: 54.7%
Silt: 25.3%
Clay: 16.6%
Sandy Loam

Soil pH

5.3pH
5.32723690692643
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Sandy Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Dallas County have?

Dallas County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 25% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Dallas County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Dallas County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Dallas County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Dallas County.

What crops or plants grow well in Dallas County's soil?

Based on Dallas County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Dallas County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Dallas County is not currently available in our dataset.

Other Counties in Alabama

Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.