Burke County Soil Data
Burke County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Fine sand
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Burke County, Georgia
Acidic Fine Sands Define Burke County
Burke County is characterized by Ultisols with a dominant fine sand texture. Its average pH of 5.35 is slightly more alkaline than the Georgia average of 5.26, though it remains significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5.
High Sand Content Limits Nutrient Retention
The soil composition is 74.9% sand, 14.8% silt, and 10.3% clay. While this mix allows for easy workability, the high sand percentage means the soil struggles to retain nutrients compared to heavier clay soils.
Lower Organic Matter Requires Regular Amending
Organic matter levels sit at 1.41%, falling below the state average of 1.83% and the national benchmark of 2.0%. An available water capacity of 0.096 in/in is also lower than the state average, suggesting crops may need more frequent irrigation.
Rapid Drainage Ideal for Building
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, this soil allows water to move through the profile quickly. These characteristics are excellent for stable building foundations but require careful management of fertilizer runoff in agriculture.
Zone 8b Favorites Thrive in Sand
The local climate and sandy soil are perfect for peanuts, cotton, and blueberries. Home gardeners in Zone 8b can find great success by adding compost to boost the soil's naturally low organic matter.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Burke County have?
Burke County's soil is classified as Fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 75% sand, 15% silt, and 10% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Burke County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Burke 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 Burke County?
Burke County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Burke County's soil?
Based on Burke County's Fine sand texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Burke County?
Burke County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
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Other Counties in Georgia
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.