Gulf County Soil Data
Gulf County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.6
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
7.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Gulf County, Florida
Moderate Acidity on the Gulf Coast
Gulf County soils have an average pH of 4.59, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 4.88. This level is significantly below the national median of 6.5, characteristic of the coastal Florida panhandle. Specific taxonomic orders are not categorized, but the chemical makeup is typical for the region.
Sandy Loam Characteristics without the Silt
The soil is 78.6% sand, 6.4% silt, and 5.7% clay, providing a relatively balanced mix for Florida. This composition allows for better structural stability than counties with 90% sand. It remains easy to till while offering slightly better moisture retention than pure sand.
Solid Organic Foundation for Growth
At 7.26%, the organic matter in Gulf County is just under the state average of 8.03% but far exceeds the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.110 in/in, which is slightly better than the Florida average of 0.108. This suggests a soil that can support healthy plant life with minimal intervention.
Stable Hydrology for Local Projects
Though official drainage classes are missing from the record, the 78.6% sand content suggests moderately rapid drainage. The soil avoids the extreme porosity of other counties, potentially retaining water slightly longer. This balance is helpful for both agricultural irrigation and home foundation stability.
Cultivating Success in Zone 9b
In Hardiness Zone 9b, Gulf County is a haven for blueberries, citrus, and sweet potatoes. The soil’s 7.26% organic matter gives your plants the fuel they need to thrive. If you start a garden here, you will find the 0.110 in/in water capacity provides a forgiving environment for beginners.
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 4.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Gulf County have?
Gulf County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 79% sand, 6% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gulf County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gulf County's soil has a low pH of 4.6, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Gulf County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Gulf County.
What crops or plants grow well in Gulf County's soil?
Based on Gulf County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 4.6, 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 Gulf County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Gulf County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Gulf County
Soil Verdict
Gulf 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
Gulf County closely matches the Florida average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 9a-9b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Gulf 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.