Hamilton County Soil Data
Hamilton County, Florida
Avg pH
5.0
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hamilton County, Florida
Hamilton Soils Show Regional Acidity
Hamilton County averages a soil pH of 5.04, which is less acidic than the Florida average of 4.88. Even so, it remains well below the national median of 6.5, meaning most garden plants will need acid-tolerant roots. Regional data on taxonomic order is unavailable, but the pH remains consistent with North Florida standards.
High Sand and Moderate Clay Levels
The soil contains 84.4% sand and 6.4% clay, which is a higher clay content than many coastal Florida counties. This small amount of clay helps with nutrient binding, though the high sand percentage still dictates rapid drainage. Silt is low at 5.2%, keeping the soil from becoming too compacted.
Room for Improvement in Organic Matter
The organic matter content is 3.78%, which is less than half of the Florida average of 8.03%. Correspondingly, the available water capacity is low at 0.088 in/in compared to the state average of 0.108. To maximize growing potential, significant soil amendments are usually required.
Managing Rapidly Draining Sandy Soils
No specific drainage class is listed, but the 84.4% sand content suggests water moves through the earth very quickly. This reduces the risk of standing water but increases the need for consistent irrigation during dry months. Builders will find this soil easy to work with for drainage-sensitive projects.
Gardening in the 9a Hardiness Zone
Hamilton County's 9a climate is ideal for pecans, blueberries, and cool-weather greens in the winter. Because the organic matter is only 3.78%, successful gardeners often use compost or manure to boost fertility. It is a great time to start a garden; just be sure to water regularly.
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 Hamilton County have?
Hamilton County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 84% sand, 5% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hamilton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hamilton 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 Hamilton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hamilton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hamilton County's soil?
Based on Hamilton 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 Hamilton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hamilton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hamilton 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.