Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, Alabama
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, Alabama
Madison's Silt-Rich Northern Alabama Soil
Madison County soil has a pH of 5.33, sitting comfortably above the state average of 5.21. Although specific taxonomic orders aren't provided, the chemistry suggests a robust mineral foundation common in the Tennessee Valley.
High Silt and Clay for Structure
A composition of 45.2% silt and 23.0% clay gives this soil excellent body and nutrient-holding capacity. This mix is less prone to the rapid leaching found in the sandy southern parts of the state.
A State Leader in Soil Quality
Madison County earns a high soil score of 32.6, driven by an available water capacity of 0.164 in/in. Its 1.73% organic matter is nearly identical to the state average, providing a reliable base for heavy production.
A Deep Reservoir for Thirsty Crops
The high available water capacity means this soil acts as a deep reservoir, sustaining plants longer between rains. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the clay content indicates the ground will stay moist and heavy after a storm.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 8a
This soil is fantastic for large-scale corn and soybean farming, but it works just as well for a backyard vegetable patch. The high water retention gives you a major advantage in keeping your plants hydrated all summer.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 45% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison 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 Madison County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Madison County.
What crops or plants grow well in Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's 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 Madison County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Madison County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Madison 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.