Fulton County Soil Data
Fulton County, Georgia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Fulton County, Georgia
Urban soils with acidic roots
Fulton County soils show an average pH of 5.51, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. Despite its urban density, the soil maintains a score of 18.8, slightly outperforming the state average soil score of 17.6.
Sandy textures dominate the landscape
The soil composition is 65.8% sand, 19.3% silt, and 14.9% clay. This high sand percentage provides excellent drainage and prevents the heavy compaction often found in higher-clay regions.
Moderate water storage for plants
Organic matter is recorded at 1.32%, trailing the state average of 1.83%. However, an available water capacity of 0.120 in/in is better than the state average, helping plants stay hydrated in metro Atlanta's heat.
Planning for urban water runoff
While specific drainage classes are missing from the data, the high sand content generally suggests rapid water movement. Gardeners should watch for quick drying in raised beds during the peak of summer.
Thriving in the Zone 8a heat
In Hardiness Zone 8a, Fulton County is ideal for growing everything from camellias to summer squash. Utilize the high sand content by planting drought-tolerant varieties or using drip irrigation.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fulton County have?
Fulton County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 66% sand, 19% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fulton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fulton County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Fulton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Fulton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Fulton County's soil?
Based on Fulton County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Fulton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Fulton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fulton County
Soil Verdict
Fulton 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
Fulton County closely matches the Georgia average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fulton 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.