Forsyth County Soil Data
Forsyth County, Georgia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Forsyth County, Georgia
Acidic Ultisols define Forsyth's profile
Forsyth County is dominated by Ultisols, which are highly weathered soils typical of the Southeast. The average pH of 5.37 is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, but slightly above the Georgia average of 5.26.
A gritty clay loam mix
The soil features a clay loam texture, composed of 57.3% sand, 24.4% silt, and 17.3% clay. This high sand content ensures decent workability, though the clay helps retain enough moisture for steady plant growth.
Thirsty soil with moderate nutrients
Organic matter sits at 1.26%, which is below the state average of 1.83% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.128 in/in exceeds the state average, indicating a good ability to hold onto moisture during dry spells.
Fast-moving water and steady drainage
Classified as well-drained and falling into Hydrologic Group B, these soils move water effectively. This makes the land suitable for home building and most farming, as it rarely stays saturated for long periods.
Garden success in Zone 8a
Forsyth belongs to Hardiness Zone 8a, where the long summers favor heat-loving crops like tomatoes and okra. Because the pH is low, adding lime and organic compost will help your garden reach its full potential.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay loam
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 Forsyth County have?
Forsyth County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 24% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Forsyth County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Forsyth 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 Forsyth County?
Forsyth 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 Forsyth County's soil?
Based on Forsyth County's Clay loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Forsyth County?
Forsyth 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Forsyth County
Soil Verdict
Forsyth County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Forsyth County closely matches the Georgia average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Forsyth 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.