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Morgan County Soil Data

Morgan County, Alabama

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

5.3

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.5%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Morgan County, Alabama

Stable pH Levels in Morgan

Morgan County features an average pH of 5.26, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.21. It remains acidic compared to the national 6.5 median, reflecting the region's long-term weathering patterns.

Silty Soils with Great Workability

The composition is a balanced 43.6% sand, 36.4% silt, and 20.0% clay. This high silt percentage makes the soil easier to till and work with than the heavier clay-dominated regions of the state.

Superior Water Storage Potential

With an available water capacity of 0.160 in/in, Morgan County significantly outperforms the state average of 0.138 in/in. Organic matter is 1.50%, which is slightly below the state average but sufficient for many agricultural uses.

Drought-Resistant Soil Qualities

Although specific drainage classes aren't listed, the 20.0% clay and high water capacity suggest the soil stays hydrated longer than average. This makes it an excellent location for farming during periods of low rainfall.

Vibrant Orchards and Root Crops

Hardiness zone 8a supports productive orchards of apples and peaches, as well as hearty root vegetables. The excellent water retention in your soil will keep your garden lush even when the summer sun is at its peak.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 43.6%
Silt: 36.4%
Clay: 20.0%
Loam

Soil pH

5.3pH
5.25726878072372
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Acidic Soil Detected

Your county's average pH is 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Morgan County have?

Morgan County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 36% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Morgan County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Morgan 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 Morgan County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Morgan County.

What crops or plants grow well in Morgan County's soil?

Based on Morgan 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 Morgan County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Morgan County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Morgan County

Soil Verdict

Morgan 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

Morgan County closely matches the Alabama average hardiness conditions.

Other Counties in Alabama

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.