Gordon County Soil Data
Gordon County, Georgia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Gravelly fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Gordon County, Georgia
Superior soil quality in Gordon
Gordon County features an impressive soil score of 32.1, which is nearly double the state average of 17.6. The dominant soils are Ultisols with a pH of 5.36, typical for the region but slightly higher than the state average.
The strength of silty loam
The soil is a gravelly fine sandy loam made of 37.6% sand, 44.3% silt, and 17.9% clay. This balanced composition offers excellent workability and enough silt to maintain a high-quality structure for roots.
High water capacity for farming
The organic matter content is 1.70%, very close to the state average of 1.83%. More impressively, the available water capacity is 0.161 in/in, which is 41% higher than the Georgia average, making it excellent for crop resilience.
Ideal drainage for building and planting
These soils are well-drained and belong to Hydrologic Group B, indicating a moderate rate of water transmission. This makes Gordon County's land highly versatile for both intensive agriculture and residential development.
Abundant growth in Zone 8a
In Zone 8a, Gordon County’s superior water capacity and soil score provide a fantastic foundation for gardening. Start your vegetable patch with confidence, knowing your soil is some of the best in the state.
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: Gravelly fine sandy 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 Gordon County have?
Gordon County's soil is classified as Gravelly fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 44% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gordon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gordon 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 Gordon County?
Gordon 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 Gordon County's soil?
Based on Gordon County's Gravelly fine sandy 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 Gordon County?
Gordon 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: Gordon County
Soil Verdict
Gordon 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
Gordon County closely matches the Georgia average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Gordon 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.