Pasco County Soil Data
Pasco County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pasco County
Soil Verdict
Pasco County is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°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
Pasco County closely matches the Florida average hardiness conditions. 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 Pasco 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.