Limestone County Soil Data
Limestone County, Alabama
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Limestone County, Alabama
Silty Soils with a Regional Acidic Edge
Limestone County soil measures a pH of 5.29, making it slightly less acidic than the state average but much lower than the national 6.5 benchmark. While specific taxonomic data is limited, the chemical profile matches the typical Red Piedmont characteristics.
Heavy Silt Content Dominates the Mix
With a massive 54.6% silt and 24.6% clay, this soil feels velvety and holds its shape well. The low 20.8% sand content means the ground can become compacted if worked while wet, but it offers excellent stability.
Superior Water Retention Boosts Growth Potential
The county boasts an available water capacity of 0.171 in/in, which is far higher than the state average of 0.138. This moisture-holding power earns the county a soil score of 32.0, well above the state average of 22.5.
A Natural Sponge for Crops
While specific drainage class data is unavailable, the high water capacity suggests these silty soils act as a reservoir for plants. This makes the land incredibly resilient during the dry spells common in Northern Alabama.
Prime Territory for Row Crops
In hardiness zone 8a, this moisture-rich soil is perfect for cotton and soybeans. Start your garden with confidence knowing your soil provides a deeper water bank than most neighboring counties.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Limestone County have?
Limestone County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 55% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Limestone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Limestone 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 Limestone County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Limestone County.
What crops or plants grow well in Limestone County's soil?
Based on Limestone County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Limestone County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Limestone County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Limestone County
Soil Verdict
Limestone County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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
Limestone County closely matches the Alabama average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 7b-8a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Limestone 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.