Escambia County Soil Data
Escambia County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Escambia County, Florida
The Panhandle's Unique Soil Identity
Escambia County features a soil pH of 4.96, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 4.88. While it is closer to the national median of 6.5 than many other Florida counties, it remains firmly in the acidic category. Detailed taxonomic data is unavailable, but the profile is distinct for the far western Panhandle.
Highest Silt and Clay in the Group
At 75.7% sand, 11.6% silt, and 8.2% clay, Escambia has the most balanced soil texture among these counties. This higher silt and clay content provides much better nutrient holding capacity and structural stability than typical Florida sands. It creates a 'heavier' soil that retains moisture and fertilizers more effectively.
Lower Organic Matter, High Water Storage
Organic matter is relatively low at 3.25%, falling well below the Florida average of 8.03%. However, the available water capacity is high at 0.119 in/in, which is better than the state average of 0.108 in/in. The silt and clay help make up for the lower organic matter by holding water in the root zone.
Balanced Drainage for Panhandle Farming
Specific drainage classes are not provided, but the higher clay and silt content suggests a slower drainage rate than Florida's peninsula sands. This can be an advantage during dry spells as it keeps the soil from becoming parched. For gardening and building, it means a more stable soil that requires less frequent watering.
Diverse Planting in Zone 9a
In Zone 9a, Escambia County is perfect for traditional Southern favorites like collard greens, pecans, and satsuma oranges. The unique silt and clay mix makes it one of the better counties for growing vegetables that need consistent moisture. Dive into gardening here, as your soil's ability to hold water gives you a significant head start.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Escambia County have?
Escambia County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 76% sand, 12% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Escambia County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Escambia County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Escambia County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Escambia County.
What crops or plants grow well in Escambia County's soil?
Based on Escambia County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Escambia County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Escambia County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Escambia County
Soil Verdict
Escambia County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°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
Escambia County closely matches the Florida average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8b-9b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Escambia County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.