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Lee County Soil Data

Lee County, Florida

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

5.4

Texture

Sand

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

9.2%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Lee County, Florida

Balanced Acidity in Lee

Lee County features a soil pH of 5.45, which is notably less acidic than the state average of 4.88. This more balanced profile contributes to a strong soil score of 41.7, well above the state average of 31.1.

Predominantly Sandy Texture

The profile is 87.4% sand, containing very little silt (1.4%) or clay (1.9%). This makes for a very loose, easy-to-dig soil that resists compaction but allows water to pass through almost instantly.

High Organic Content Potential

Organic matter is a strong suit here at 9.17%, well above the state average of 8.03%. While the available water capacity of 0.106 in/in is slightly below the state benchmark, the high organic content helps hold onto essential nutrients.

Efficient Water Movement

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are missing from the data. Given that sand makes up nearly 90% of the soil, you can expect exceptionally fast drainage and low water retention during the rainy season.

Tropical Paradise in Zone 10b

As a tropical Zone 10b, Lee County is a paradise for growing mangoes, papayas, and other frost-sensitive species. Your high organic matter provides a great natural boost for any tropical fruit trees you choose to plant.

Soil Composition

Sand
Sand: 87.4%
Silt: 1.4%
Clay: 1.9%
Sand

Soil pH

5.4pH
5.4463536777118
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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: Sand

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Acidic Soil Detected

Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Lee County have?

Lee County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 87% sand, 1% silt, and 2% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Lee County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Lee County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Lee County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Lee County.

What crops or plants grow well in Lee County's soil?

Based on Lee County's Sand texture, pH of 5.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists.

What USDA soil order is found in Lee County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Lee County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Lee County

Soil Verdict

Lee County is in USDA hardiness zone 10b, a very warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 35°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

Lee County is somewhat warmer than the Florida statewide average. The zone range of 10a-10b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.

Other Counties in Florida

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.