Perry County Soil Data
Perry County, Alabama
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Perry County, Alabama
Perry County's Balanced Soil pH
Perry County reports a pH of 5.46, which is one of the highest in this group and well above the state average of 5.21. While still acidic relative to the national 6.5 median, it provides a more flexible environment for many crops.
Dense Soil for Nutrient Holding
The soil mix consists of 44.2% sand, 31.3% silt, and 22.0% clay. This relatively high clay content allows the soil to hold onto nutrients effectively, though it may be harder to work when wet.
High Organic Matter and Fertility
Organic matter in Perry County is a strong 2.09%, exceeding both the state average and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.137 in/in is almost exactly in line with the state average, supporting healthy growth.
Reliable Moisture for Crops
The 22.0% clay content suggests that these soils retain moisture well throughout the growing season. With a respectable soil score of 31.2, this county offers better-than-average natural conditions for local agriculture.
A Natural Spot for Heavy Feeders
The high organic matter in zone 8b is perfect for heavy-feeding crops like corn and squash. If you are starting a garden, you have some of the best natural soil fertility in the region to work with.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Perry County have?
Perry County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 31% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Perry County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Perry County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Perry County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Perry County.
What crops or plants grow well in Perry County's soil?
Based on Perry County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, 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 Perry County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Perry County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Perry County
Soil Verdict
Perry 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
Perry County closely matches the Alabama average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Perry 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.