DeSoto County Soil Data
DeSoto County, Florida
Avg pH
4.7
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
13.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in DeSoto County, Florida
Intense Acidity in the Heartland
DeSoto County's soil is notably acidic with a pH of 4.70, falling well below the national median of 6.5. This pH is also lower than the Florida state average of 4.88, reflecting the county's unique mineral and organic makeup. Taxonomic details are currently unavailable, but the acidity defines the local agricultural landscape.
Ultra-Sandy Soil with Low Silt
The soil is composed of 82.6% sand and a remarkably low 0.8% silt, making it one of the most sand-dominant profiles in the region. With only 1.7% clay, the soil offers very little natural binding or nutrient storage capacity. This texture is ideal for citrus drainage but requires intensive management for other crops.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
DeSoto boasts a massive 13.75% organic matter content, far exceeding the state average of 8.03% and the national 2.0%. This richness contributes to an available water capacity of 0.130 in/in, which is better than the state average of 0.108 in/in. This soil is surprisingly good at holding moisture compared to its peers.
Natural Water Retention in Sand
While official drainage and hydrologic group classifications are missing, the high organic matter suggests better water management than typical sandy soils. The soil likely resists the immediate drying seen in other 80% sand environments. This makes it a valuable resource for local agriculture, though proper drainage remains key during wet seasons.
Lush Growing in Zone 9b
Zone 9b provides a warm, hospitable climate for DeSoto's famous citrus groves and cattle pastures. The high organic matter makes this soil excellent for intensive vegetable gardening or tropical fruit trees like lychees. Your garden will thrive here with minimal fertilizer thanks to the naturally high organic content.
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: Loamy Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does DeSoto County have?
DeSoto County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 83% sand, 1% silt, and 2% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is DeSoto County's soil acidic or alkaline?
DeSoto County's soil has a low pH of 4.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for DeSoto County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for DeSoto County.
What crops or plants grow well in DeSoto County's soil?
Based on DeSoto County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 4.7, 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 DeSoto County?
The dominant USDA soil order for DeSoto County is not currently available in our dataset.
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Other Counties in Florida
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.