Seminole County Soil Data
Seminole County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.7
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
13.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Seminole County, Florida
Highly acidic soils in Central Florida
Seminole County features an average soil pH of 4.71, making it significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level also falls slightly below the Florida state average of 4.88. While specific taxonomic data is limited here, the acidic profile defines the region's chemical makeup.
A sandy foundation with minimal clay
The soil composition is dominated by 81.0% sand, with very low levels of silt at 0.8% and clay at 1.8%. This gritty mix ensures rapid drainage but offers very little natural structure for holding onto added nutrients. Gardeners must manage this loose texture carefully to prevent fertilizer runoff.
Exceptional organic matter boost
At 13.92%, the organic matter content is remarkably high, far exceeding the state average of 8.03% and the national average of 2.0%. This rich biological material supports an available water capacity of 0.123 in/in. These factors contribute to a healthy soil score of 34.9, which sits above the state average.
Managing water in an unclassified landscape
While specific drainage classes are not recorded for this area, the high sand content suggests naturally fast percolation. The soil score of 34.9 indicates better-than-average performance compared to the Florida baseline of 31.1. Local builders and farmers should monitor site-specific water tables before major projects.
Thriving in hardiness zone 10a
With a 10a hardiness rating, Seminole County is perfect for heat-loving tropicals and citrus. The high organic matter supports heavy feeders, provided you supplement the naturally acidic pH. Start a garden today with acid-loving blueberries or ornamental gingers.
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 4.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Seminole County have?
Seminole County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 81% sand, 1% silt, and 2% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Seminole County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Seminole 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 Seminole County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Seminole County.
What crops or plants grow well in Seminole County's soil?
Based on Seminole County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 4.7, 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 Seminole County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Seminole County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Seminole County
Soil Verdict
Seminole 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
Seminole 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 Seminole 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.