Greene County Soil Data
Greene County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
0.9%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Greene County, Georgia
Greene's Classic Ultisol Identity
Dominated by the Ultisols order, Greene County features a pH of 5.37. This is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median but slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.26. These 'red clay' soils are common throughout the Piedmont region.
Sandy Loam with Grit
The dominant texture here is a sandy loam, composed of 63.1% sand, 22.8% silt, and 14.1% clay. This balance provides a more stable structure than pure sand while remaining easier to drain than heavy clay. It offers a moderate level of workability for local farmers.
Boosting Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter sits at a low 0.93%, which is about half the Georgia average of 1.83%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.131 in/in is higher than the state average of 0.114. This means the soil holds onto moisture well even if nutrients are sparse.
Stable Drainage and Runoff
Greene's soil is classified as moderately well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This group indicates a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet, which is good for construction and gardening alike. It provides a reliable foundation that doesn't easily waterlog.
Diverse Planting in Zone 8b
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, Greene County supports a wide variety of perennials and summer annuals. The sandy loam texture is perfect for root crops and roses if the low organic matter is supplemented. Get outside and start a compost pile to enrich your Piedmont soil.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
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 Greene County have?
Greene County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 63% sand, 23% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Greene County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Greene 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 Greene County?
Greene County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Greene County's soil?
Based on Greene County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Moderately 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 Greene County?
Greene 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 Greene 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.