Manatee County Soil Data
Manatee County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
9.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Manatee County, Florida
Milder Acidity in Manatee
Manatee County soils show a pH of 5.07, making them slightly less acidic than the Florida state average of 4.88. This still falls well below the national median of 6.5, requiring acid-loving plants or soil amendments for balance.
Mostly Sand and Grit
The ground is overwhelmingly sandy at 84.5%, with very little silt (1.8%) or clay (3.1%). This gritty texture facilitates easy workability but limits the soil's natural ability to store long-term nutrients.
Rich Organic Matter Reserves
With an organic matter content of 9.84%, Manatee County outperforms the state average of 8.03%. Its available water capacity of 0.109 in/in sits right at the state benchmark, indicating decent moisture retention for crops.
Quick-Draining Coastal Soils
Though dominant drainage classes are not listed, the high sand content ensures that water moves through the profile quickly. Gardeners and builders should prepare for rapid infiltration during Florida's heavy summer rain cycles.
Tropical Fruit Potential
Located in tropical Zone 10a, Manatee County is perfect for mangoes, avocados, and other frost-sensitive species. High organic matter levels mean your vegetable garden has a natural head start on nutritional success.
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 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Manatee County have?
Manatee County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 84% sand, 2% silt, and 3% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Manatee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Manatee County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Manatee County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Manatee County.
What crops or plants grow well in Manatee County's soil?
Based on Manatee County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 5.1, 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 Manatee County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Manatee County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Manatee County
Soil Verdict
Manatee County is in USDA hardiness zone 10a, a very warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 30°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
Manatee County is somewhat warmer than the Florida statewide average. The zone range of 9b-10b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Manatee 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.