Escambia County Soil Data
Escambia County, Alabama
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.0%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Escambia County, Alabama
Acidic Loams of South Alabama
Escambia County's soil consists of Ultisols with a relatively low pH of 5.09. This makes it more acidic than the state average and significantly more so than the national median of 6.5. Despite the acidity, the county maintains a soil score of 29.2, which is higher than many neighboring counties.
Sandy Profiles with Loamy Character
The soil composition is dominated by 65.5% sand, giving it a gritty feel and easy workability. Silt accounts for 20.6%, while clay makes up just 10.5% of the mix. This results in a loamy texture that allows for deep root penetration and easy mechanical tilling.
Exceptional Organic Carbon Storage
Escambia boasts an impressive 4.04% organic matter, more than double the state average of 1.74%. This rich carbon content provides a major nutrient reservoir for plants. However, the available water capacity is only 0.124 in/in, meaning the soil doesn't hold moisture as effectively as it holds nutrients.
Management for Poorly Drained Sites
Despite the high sand content, these soils are often poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group D. This indicates a high runoff potential and a frequent need for drainage management in agricultural fields. Homeowners should check for high water tables before beginning foundation work or landscaping.
Lush Potential in Zone 8b
The warm 8b climate and high organic matter make this county a powerhouse for specialty crops like pecans and blueberries. These plants thrive in the natural acidity found throughout the region. With proper drainage, your Escambia garden can be among the most productive in the state.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Escambia County have?
Escambia County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 66% sand, 21% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Escambia County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Escambia County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Escambia County?
Escambia County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Escambia County's soil?
Based on Escambia County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Escambia County?
Escambia County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Escambia 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.