DeKalb County Soil Data
DeKalb County, Alabama
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in DeKalb County, Alabama
Acidic Profiles in the Appalachian Plateau
DeKalb County soils show an average pH of 5.22, which aligns closely with the Alabama state average of 5.21. This level is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, requiring lime treatments for most traditional crops. While specific taxonomic data is limited for this region, the overall soil score of 24.2 sits just above the state benchmark.
Balanced Texture for Good Workability
The soil contains 33.2% sand and 44.9% silt, balanced by 22.0% clay content. This high silt percentage suggests a smooth texture that is generally easy to till and manage. However, the moderate clay levels mean farmers must monitor for compaction during wet seasons.
Strong Water Retention Despite Lower Carbon
Organic matter sits at 1.56%, trailing both the state average of 1.74% and the national average of 2.0%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.151 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.138. This helps crops survive short dry spells even when nutrient levels require supplemental feeding.
Hydraulic Performance in DeKalb
While specific drainage classes are not currently mapped for this county, the high water capacity suggests a system that holds moisture well. Local builders and farmers should conduct site-specific tests to determine the depth to the water table. These soils generally support varied land use when managed for their acidic nature.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 8a
DeKalb County falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, providing a long and productive growing season. Blueberries and azaleas thrive in this naturally acidic soil without heavy modification. Start a home garden today by focusing on acid-loving perennials or using lime to boost vegetable yields.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does DeKalb County have?
DeKalb County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 45% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is DeKalb County's soil acidic or alkaline?
DeKalb County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for DeKalb County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for DeKalb County.
What crops or plants grow well in DeKalb County's soil?
Based on DeKalb County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 DeKalb County?
The dominant USDA soil order for DeKalb County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for DeKalb County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.