Jackson County Soil Data
Jackson County, Alabama
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Jackson County, Alabama
Rich Loam in Northern Alabama
Jackson County is characterized by Ultisols that form a productive loam texture. Its average pH of 5.26 is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.21 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median.
Perfectly Balanced Mineral Components
The soil features a balanced mix of 35.0% sand, 43.2% silt, and 21.8% clay. This loamy composition provides the ideal middle ground for easy workability and excellent nutrient retention.
Superior Water Storage Capacity
Jackson County boasts a high available water capacity of 0.159 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average of 0.138 in/in. Although organic matter is slightly low at 1.49%, the soil's ability to hold water makes it very resilient.
Well Drained and Stable
The dominant drainage class is 'well drained' with a hydrologic group rating of B. This means the soil absorbs water at a moderate rate and provides a stable, reliable surface for both agriculture and construction.
Gardening in a Cool 7b Climate
The county falls into hardiness zone 7b, supporting classic Appalachian crops like apples and hardy greens. Its soil score of 26.2 suggests a high potential for anyone looking to establish a thriving backyard plot.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jackson County have?
Jackson County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 43% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jackson 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 Jackson County?
Jackson County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Jackson County's soil?
Based on Jackson County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Jackson County?
Jackson 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 Jackson 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.