Habersham County Soil Data
Habersham County, Georgia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Habersham County, Georgia
High-Quality Highlands Soil
Habersham County boasts a soil score of 31.6, nearly double the state average of 17.6. The pH level is 5.43, following the regional trend of acidity compared to the national 6.5 median. This high score suggests superior conditions for native plant health.
Balanced Silty Texture
The composition is 55.2% sand and a relatively high 28.2% silt, with 16.6% clay. The increased silt content compared to southern counties offers better texture and nutrient-holding capacity. It creates a soil that is both easy to dig and structurally sound.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
At 2.11%, Habersham's organic matter exceeds both the state average of 1.83% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.139 in/in. This is some of the most fertile ground in the state for natural growth.
Mountain Drainage Patterns
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not available for this county's profile. However, the high silt and moderate clay percentages usually indicate steady, moderate drainage. You should monitor your site for slope-related runoff during heavy North Georgia rains.
Thriving in the Zone 8a Foothills
Habersham is situated in Zone 8a, providing a slightly cooler climate than the coastal plains. The high organic matter makes this an ideal place for apple orchards and berries. Your soil is already ahead of the curve, so start planting today.
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: 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 Habersham County have?
Habersham County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 28% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Habersham County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Habersham 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 Habersham County?
Habersham 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 Habersham County's soil?
Based on Habersham County's 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 Habersham County?
Habersham 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: Habersham County
Soil Verdict
Habersham 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
Habersham County closely matches the Georgia average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Habersham 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.