Lee County Soil Data
Lee County, Alabama
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Lee County, Alabama
Sandy Loam and Acidic Ultisols Define Lee
Lee County features sandy loam soils from the weathered Ultisols order. Its average pH of 5.41 sits above the state average of 5.21 but remains significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5.
High Sand Content Ensures Quick Drainage
The soil contains 66.8% sand, which creates a gritty texture that is easy to work and plow. However, the low 9.8% clay content means the soil struggles to hold onto essential plant nutrients compared to heavier mixes.
Modest Organic Matter Below State Norms
The county's 1.35% organic matter is lower than the Alabama average of 1.74%. With an available water capacity of 0.116 in/in, these soils require consistent irrigation and regular compost additions to boost productivity.
Well-Drained Ground for Easy Building
Classified as well-drained and belonging to hydrologic group B, these soils move water efficiently through the profile. This makes Lee County favorable for home construction and basement stability, though it dries out quickly for farmers.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8b
Blueberries and peanuts thrive in this warm climate and sandy ground. If you add lime to balance the acidity, your garden will flourish throughout the long Alabama growing season.
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: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lee County have?
Lee County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 67% sand, 23% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lee County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Lee County?
Lee 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 Lee County's soil?
Based on Lee County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Lee County?
Lee 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lee County
Soil Verdict
Lee County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Lee County closely matches the Alabama average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lee 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.