Glades County Soil Data
Glades County, Florida
Avg pH
3.9
Texture
Fine sand
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
22.1%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Glades County, Florida
Acidic Entisols Dominate Glades County
Glades County features Entisols with a very low average pH of 3.93, making it one of the most acidic regions in Florida. This is significantly lower than the state average of 4.88 and the national median of 6.5. These soils are young and have seen little development in their taxonomic profile.
Fine Sands with High Organic Blend
The dominant texture is fine sand, comprising 65.4% of the soil, with negligible silt and clay. Unlike its neighbors, this sand is mixed with an enormous amount of organic material. This creates a unique physical profile that is highly workable but chemically complex.
Massive Organic Matter Boosts Fertility
Glades County boasts a staggering 22.07% organic matter, nearly three times the Florida average of 8.03%. This leads to an available water capacity of 0.175 in/in, which is far superior to the state average of 0.108. These soils have incredible potential for growth if the extreme acidity is managed.
Well Drained Soils in Group A
The soil is classified as 'Well drained' and belongs to Hydrologic Group A, indicating high infiltration rates and low runoff potential. This is ideal for development and farming as it prevents surface flooding. Water moves efficiently through the profile, aided by the high sand content.
Lush Growing in Tropical Zone 10a
The warm 10a hardiness zone allows Glades residents to grow tropical fruits like mangoes and avocados. The 22.07% organic matter provides an incredible nutrient bank for any gardener. Despite the 3.93 pH, the soil's moisture-holding ability makes it a fantastic place to start a lush, tropical landscape.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Glades County have?
Glades County's soil is classified as Fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 1% silt, and 1% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Glades County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Glades County's soil has a low pH of 3.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Glades County?
Glades 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 Glades County's soil?
Based on Glades County's Fine sand texture, pH of 3.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Glades County?
Glades County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Glades 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.