Pinellas County Soil Data
Pinellas County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
13.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pinellas County, Florida
Balanced Acidity on the Peninsula
Pinellas County features an average pH of 5.08, which is slightly less acidic than the Florida state average of 4.88. It remains well below the national median of 6.5, suggesting a need for lime if you are growing vegetables that prefer neutral soil. This acidity is typical for the coastal peninsula environment.
A Sandy Foundation with Minimal Clay
The soil is 81.5% sand, 1.2% silt, and 2.2% clay, which is slightly less sandy than its inland neighbors. The low clay and silt percentages mean the soil lacks natural structural stability but offers excellent aeration for roots. This makes it an easy medium for landscaping and turfgrass management.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Pinellas boasts a massive 13.91% organic matter content, nearly double the state average of 8.03% and seven times the national average. This high organic level results in an available water capacity of 0.124 in/in, which is significantly better than the state average. This soil is naturally primed for high productivity and moisture retention.
Coastal Water Dynamics and Drainage
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high available water capacity suggests the soil holds moisture better than typical Florida sand. The county's peninsula geography means drainage is heavily influenced by the proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. Urban development in this area also impacts how rain moves through the soil profile.
Tropical Possibilities in Zone 10a
In Zone 10a, Pinellas gardeners can grow everything from hibiscus to starfruit with ease. The high organic matter in the soil provides a fantastic head start for any garden project. Embrace the coastal climate by planting salt-tolerant species and enjoying year-round blooms.
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 Pinellas County have?
Pinellas County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 82% sand, 1% silt, and 2% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pinellas County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pinellas 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 Pinellas County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pinellas County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pinellas County's soil?
Based on Pinellas 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 Pinellas County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pinellas County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pinellas County
Soil Verdict
Pinellas 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
Pinellas County is somewhat warmer than the Florida statewide average. The zone range of 10a-10b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pinellas 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.