Lowndes County Soil Data
Lowndes County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
5.0%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Lowndes County, Georgia
Acidic Ultisols of Lowndes
Lowndes County features Ultisols with an average pH of 4.97, making it more acidic than the state average of 5.26. This is significantly lower than the national median pH of 6.5, requiring lime for most standard crops.
A Sandy Loam Texture
The soil is predominantly sand at 76.9%, with 11.2% silt and 7.5% clay. This loamy texture is easy to work and allows for rapid root penetration for young plants.
High Organic Content
At 4.96%, the organic matter content is remarkably high, far exceeding the state average of 1.83% and the national average of 2.0%. This rich organic base helps offset the slightly lower water capacity of 0.106 in/in.
Wet and Slow Draining
Classified as very poorly drained and falling into hydrologic group C/D, these soils hold onto moisture stubbornly. This can be challenging for traditional building but supports specific wetland-friendly agriculture.
Abundance in Zone 9a
Lowndes County thrives in Hardiness Zone 9a, where camellias and azaleas love the acidic soil. Start a garden today with pecans or citrus trees, which flourish in this warm climate.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lowndes County have?
Lowndes County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 77% sand, 11% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lowndes County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lowndes County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Lowndes County?
Lowndes County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Lowndes County's soil?
Based on Lowndes County's Loam texture, pH of 5.0, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Lowndes County?
Lowndes 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 Lowndes 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.