McIntosh County Soil Data
McIntosh County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Clay
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
3.3%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in McIntosh County, Georgia
Acidic Entisols Near the Coast
McIntosh features Entisols with a pH of 5.13, which is more acidic than the Georgia average of 5.26. This level sits significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a strong need for lime. These young soils offer a unique foundation for coastal life.
Sandy Texture with a Clay Twist
The ground is extremely sandy at 75%, yet clay is the dominant texture class. This 11.5% clay and 13.5% silt mix creates a unique profile that can struggle with drainage. The high sand content makes the soil easy to work but prone to leaching.
High Organic Content, Low Water Holding
Organic matter is impressively high at 3.3%, far exceeding the state average of 1.83%. However, the available water capacity of 0.087 in/in is below the state’s 0.114 benchmark. This means plants may need more frequent watering despite the rich organic base.
Challenges in Low-Lying Drainage
This coastal county is characterized as very poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group C/D. These conditions mean water lingers near the surface, posing challenges for traditional building foundations. Careful water management is vital for any local land use.
Subtropical Success in Zone 9a
Located in Zone 9a, McIntosh offers a subtropical environment for gardeners. The high organic matter supports lush growth, though the low water capacity favors drought-tolerant coastal species. Embrace the warm climate by planting citrus or salt-tolerant ornamentals.
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: Clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does McIntosh County have?
McIntosh County's soil is classified as Clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 75% sand, 14% silt, and 11% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is McIntosh County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McIntosh County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for McIntosh County?
McIntosh 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 McIntosh County's soil?
Based on McIntosh County's Clay texture, pH of 5.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, wetland plants and crops tolerant of slow drainage, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in McIntosh County?
McIntosh County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for McIntosh 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.