Okaloosa County Soil Data
Okaloosa County, Florida
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Okaloosa County, Florida
Panhandle Sandy Entisols
These Entisols have an average pH of 5.07, which is more alkaline than the Florida average of 4.88 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. The dominant texture is sand, typical for the panhandle region.
Silty Sand Mix
The mix includes 80.6% sand, 10.7% silt, and 6.2% clay. While sand dominates, the 10.7% silt content is higher than many other Florida counties, providing a slight boost to soil structure.
Lower Organic Levels
Organic matter is relatively low at 2.65%, falling far below the Florida state average of 8.03%. The available water capacity of 0.088 in/in is also below the state average, meaning crops may need more frequent watering.
Rapidly Draining Ground
This soil is classified as excessively drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group A. Water moves through the profile very quickly, making it excellent for avoiding root rot but challenging for moisture-loving plants.
Thriving in Zone 9a
Located in zone 9a, Okaloosa is ideal for heat-tolerant vegetables and citrus with proper irrigation. Focus on adding compost to improve the low organic matter and help the sandy soil retain moisture.
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
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Okaloosa County have?
Okaloosa County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 81% sand, 11% silt, and 6% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Okaloosa County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Okaloosa 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 Okaloosa County?
Okaloosa County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Okaloosa County's soil?
Based on Okaloosa County's Sand texture, pH of 5.1, and Excessively drained, 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 Okaloosa County?
Okaloosa 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.
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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.