Orange County Soil Data
Orange County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.7
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
12.2%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Orange County, Florida
Acidic Central Sands
Orange County’s Entisols are quite acidic, measuring a pH of 4.69. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and sits below the typical Florida average of 4.88.
Porosity and Permeability
The soil profile is 80.2% sand, 1.4% silt, and 2.6% clay. This sandy dominant texture is common for Central Florida, facilitating quick water penetration through the top layers.
Rich in Living Matter
The area features a high organic matter content of 12.20%, which is over 50% higher than the state average. This richness is complemented by an available water capacity of 0.127 in/in, indicating strong moisture-holding ability.
Slow Drainage Challenges
These soils are classified as somewhat poorly drained despite being in Hydrologic Group A. Homeowners should plan for slow drainage in low-lying areas during Florida's intense rainy season.
Home of the Citrus
Zone 10a supports a vast range of ornamental and edible plants, including the citrus that gives the county its name. The high organic matter provides a great foundation for a thriving home vegetable garden.
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
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orange County have?
Orange County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 80% sand, 1% silt, and 3% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Orange County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orange County's soil has a low pH of 4.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Orange County?
Orange County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Orange County's soil?
Based on Orange County's Sand texture, pH of 4.7, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Orange County?
Orange 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Orange County
Soil Verdict
Orange 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
Orange County is somewhat warmer than the Florida statewide average. The zone range of 9b-10a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orange 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.