Lamar County Soil Data
Lamar County, Alabama
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lamar County, Alabama
The Most Acidic Soils of the Region
Lamar County exhibits an exceptionally acidic soil profile with a pH of 4.88. This is one of the lowest in the state, falling well below the national median of 6.5 and the Alabama average of 5.21.
High Sand and Low Clay
The soil is comprised of 56.9% sand, 27.9% silt, and 12.9% clay. This high sand percentage creates a coarse texture that drains rapidly but lacks the structural integrity of clay-rich soils.
Struggling to Retain Nutrients
Lamar's organic matter of 1.48% and available water capacity of 0.132 in/in both fall below the Alabama state averages. These figures suggest that the soil requires regular organic inputs to support intensive gardening or farming.
Fast Drainage Risks Leaching
Though specific hydrology data is not listed, the 56.9% sand content typically indicates high infiltration rates. While this prevents standing water, it can lead to the rapid leaching of essential plant nutrients into the groundwater.
Resilient Planting in Zone 8a
The 8a climate is forgiving, allowing for a wide variety of southern staples. While the soil score is 12.5, using raised beds and blueberries—which love acidic soil—will help you find immediate success.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lamar County have?
Lamar County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 28% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lamar County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lamar County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Lamar County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lamar County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lamar County's soil?
Based on Lamar County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Lamar County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lamar County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lamar 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.