Talladega County Soil Data
Talladega County, Alabama
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.9
Texture
Gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Talladega County, Alabama
Ultisols form the Talladega foundation
Talladega County's soil belongs to the Ultisols order and features a highly acidic pH of 4.94. This level is much lower than the national median of 6.5 and sits below the state average of 5.21.
Gravelly sandy loam offers structural integrity
The dominant texture is a gravelly sandy loam, composed of 35.5% sand, 39.4% silt, and 18.5% clay. This unique combination offers excellent structural integrity for both farming and construction.
Exceptional organic matter leads the state
Fertility is a highlight here, with 2.36% organic matter—far exceeding both the state average of 1.74% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.142 in/in also beats the state average of 0.138.
Well-drained soils reduce root rot risk
This soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. These characteristics mean water moves through the profile effectively, reducing the risk of root rot while requiring smart irrigation management.
Ideal conditions for heirloom tomatoes
In Hardiness Zone 8a, the high organic matter provides a fantastic foundation for heirloom tomatoes and summer squash. Your soil is already richer than many of your neighbors, so start planting with confidence this spring.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Talladega County have?
Talladega County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 39% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Talladega County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Talladega County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Talladega County?
Talladega County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Talladega County's soil?
Based on Talladega County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 4.9, and 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 Talladega County?
Talladega 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Talladega County
Soil Verdict
Talladega 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
Talladega County closely matches the Alabama average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Talladega 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.