Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Alabama
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Very fine sandy loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Alabama
The Ultisols of Montgomery County
Montgomery County sits on Ultisols with a very fine sandy loam texture and an average pH of 5.33. This is slightly less acidic than the Alabama state average of 5.21, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.
A Richer Clay and Silt Mix
The soil contains 48.0% sand, 28.4% silt, and a significant 21.7% clay content. This balanced ratio provides a good mix of drainage and nutrient retention, making it more robust than more sandy coastal counties.
Healthy Water Retention Capacity
The available water capacity of 0.142 in/in beats the state average, helping plants survive the Alabama heat. However, the organic matter content of 1.57% trails both the state average of 1.74% and the national average of 2.0%.
Moderately Well-Drained Landscapes
Classified as moderately well-drained and part of hydrologic group C, this soil has somewhat slow infiltration rates. The 21.7% clay content helps hold moisture but can lead to surface runoff during the heavy rain common in the region.
Ideal for Southern Staple Crops
In hardiness zone 8b, you can reliably grow Southern favorites like collard greens and sweet potatoes. The soil’s ability to store water makes it a stable foundation for a thriving backyard vegetable patch.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Very fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Very fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 28% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery 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 Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Very fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Moderately 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 Montgomery County?
Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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.