Pasco County Soil Data

Pasco County, Florida

Avg pH

4.9

Texture

Sand

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

8.2%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Pasco County, Florida

Acidic Profiles Define Pasco Soil

Pasco County soils have an average pH of 4.94, making them significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is very close to the Florida state average of 4.88, reflecting the state's typical pine flatwood and scrub environments. Acid-loving plants like azaleas and blueberries find a natural home here.

High Sand Content Limits Retention

The soil is comprised of 85.3% sand, with only 2.3% silt and 3.3% clay. This high sand concentration means the soil is easy to work and dig but struggles to hold onto water and nutrients. You will likely need to water more frequently during dry spells to keep shallow-rooted plants healthy.

Rich Organic Matter Boosts Growth

Pasco exceeds the state average for organic matter with a solid 8.25%, which is over four times the national average. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is slightly low at 0.104 in/in compared to the state's 0.108. The organic matter provides a necessary buffer for nutrient storage in an otherwise sandy environment.

Understanding Missing Drainage Details

Specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are currently unavailable for Pasco County in this record. Given the high sand content of 85.3%, natural drainage is likely rapid, though local limestone features can sometimes create sinkholes or perched water tables. Always observe how water pools on your property after a heavy summer storm.

Diverse Planting in Zone 9b

Pasco County sits in Hardiness Zone 9b, allowing for a wide variety of citrus and hardy perennials. The soil's natural acidity is perfect for camellias and gardenias, which flourish in these conditions. Start a garden today to take advantage of the high organic matter and long growing season.

Soil Composition

Sand
Sand: 85.3%
Silt: 2.3%
Clay: 3.3%
Sand

Soil pH

4.9pH
4.93739731536103
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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Pasco County have?

Pasco County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 85% sand, 2% silt, and 3% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Pasco County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Pasco County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Pasco County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Pasco County.

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

Based on Pasco County's Sand texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Pasco County?

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

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.