DeKalb County Soil Data
DeKalb County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in DeKalb County, Georgia
High-Quality Urban Soils
DeKalb County features Ultisols with an above-average soil score of 19.6. The average pH of 5.40 is less acidic than the state norm but remains well below the national median of 6.5.
Balanced Sandy Loam Mix
This sandy loam consists of 60.2% sand, 21.1% silt, and 16.9% clay. It provides a versatile texture that is easier to manage than the heavy clays found elsewhere.
Strong Water Retention
The available water capacity of 0.130 beats the state average of 0.114, showing excellent moisture storage. However, organic matter at 1.39% still trails the state average of 1.83%.
Managing Poor Drainage
Soils here are primarily poorly drained and belong to hydrologic group D. This indicates water moves slowly, creating specific challenges for building foundations and basement waterproofing.
Gardening in Zone 8a
The county resides in Hardiness Zone 8a, supporting a wide variety of southern staples. High water retention makes this area particularly well-suited for lush hydrangea gardens.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does DeKalb County have?
DeKalb County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 21% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is DeKalb County's soil acidic or alkaline?
DeKalb 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 DeKalb County?
DeKalb County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in DeKalb County's soil?
Based on DeKalb County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in DeKalb County?
DeKalb 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for DeKalb County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.