St. Lucie County Soil Data
St. Lucie County, Florida
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in St. Lucie County, Florida
Higher pH levels in the Treasure Coast
St. Lucie County soil averages a pH of 5.43, which is significantly higher than the Florida state average of 4.88. While still acidic compared to the national 6.5 median, it is among the more balanced soils in the state. This makes it a prime location for various agricultural pursuits.
Heavy sand dominates the landscape
The soil is 83.2% sand, with 2.4% silt and 3.1% clay. This high sand percentage facilitates rapid drainage, which is vital during heavy Florida rainstorms. However, the low clay content means the soil lacks natural stickiness and structural strength.
Strong soil score with moderate water capacity
The county boasts a soil score of 39.7, well above the Florida average of 31.1. Organic matter is healthy at 8.46%, though the available water capacity of 0.093 in/in is lower than the state average of 0.108. Frequent irrigation may be necessary despite the good organic levels.
Efficient drainage for tropical storms
No specific drainage class is recorded, but the high sand content ensures water moves quickly through the profile. The 39.7 soil score indicates this land is high-performing for the region. This efficiency is a major asset for avoiding standing water in residential landscapes.
Year-round growing in zone 10a
The 10a hardiness zone allows for year-round growth of avocados, mangoes, and citrus. Because the pH is a relatively mild 5.43, you have more flexibility in plant selection than in other counties. Start your tropical orchard today in these high-performing soils.
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 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does St. Lucie County have?
St. Lucie County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 83% sand, 2% silt, and 3% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is St. Lucie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
St. Lucie County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for St. Lucie County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for St. Lucie County.
What crops or plants grow well in St. Lucie County's soil?
Based on St. Lucie County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 5.4, 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 St. Lucie County?
The dominant USDA soil order for St. Lucie County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: St. Lucie County
Soil Verdict
St. Lucie 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
St. Lucie County is somewhat warmer than the Florida statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for St. Lucie 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.