Sacramento County Soil Data
Sacramento County, California
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Variable
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Sacramento County, California
Acidic Alluvial Soils of the Valley
Sacramento’s soil is notably acidic with a pH of 5.33, which sits significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This variable texture reflects the complex history of the Central Valley's river deposits. Understanding this acidic profile is key for selecting the right nutrient supplements.
A Gritty Mix with Moderate Hold
The local soil contains 37.8% sand, 27.1% silt, and 17.2% clay. This balance provides a decent foundation for workability, though the high sand content leads to faster drying. Gardeners find this mix easy to till but must monitor moisture levels closely.
Trailing State Averages in Organic Wealth
Organic matter sits at 2.32%, trailing the California average of 3.30%. The available water capacity of 0.124 in/in is also below the state benchmark of 0.141 in/in. Regular mulching is essential here to boost nutrient retention and prevent water loss.
Navigating the Valley's Water Flow
While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the sandy loam characteristics suggest moderate infiltration across the county. Local growers should monitor for runoff during heavy winter rains typical of the Sacramento Valley. Proper site grading helps manage the variable drainage found in urban and rural lots.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 9b
Hardiness Zone 9b is perfect for heat-loving tomatoes, peppers, and winter leafy greens. With the right soil amendments, your Sacramento backyard can become a high-yield urban farm. Start your seedlings now to take full advantage of the long, warm 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: Variable
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sacramento County have?
Sacramento County's soil is classified as Variable. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 27% silt, and 17% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Sacramento County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sacramento 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 Sacramento County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Sacramento County.
What crops or plants grow well in Sacramento County's soil?
Based on Sacramento County's Variable texture, pH of 5.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas.
What USDA soil order is found in Sacramento County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Sacramento County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sacramento County
Soil Verdict
Sacramento County is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Sacramento County closely matches the California average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sacramento County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in California
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.