Meriwether County Soil Data
Meriwether County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Meriwether County, Georgia
Ancient Ultisols of Meriwether
Meriwether is dominated by weathered Ultisols with a pH of 5.34. While slightly less acidic than the state average, it remains more acidic than the national 6.5 median. These soils represent the classic red-clay character of the Georgia Piedmont.
A Balanced Clay Loam Mix
The soil is a clay loam consisting of 57.9% sand and 18.1% clay. This balanced mix provides a sturdy structure that offers both workability for farmers and decent nutrient retention. It strikes a helpful middle ground between heavy clay and loose sand.
Strong Water Retention Potential
Organic matter sits at 1.23%, trailing behind the state average of 1.83%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.128 in/in beats the state average, helping plants survive dry spells. This ability to hold moisture is a major asset for local agriculture.
Reliable Natural Drainage
The county features well-drained soils in hydrologic group B. This profile is excellent for both agriculture and construction, as it manages runoff effectively without staying saturated. It is one of the more versatile soil types for development in the region.
Abundant Growth in Zone 8a
Falling in Hardiness Zone 8a, Meriwether supports a diverse range of crops. Fruit trees and traditional summer vegetables thrive in these well-drained, water-holding clay loams. Your soil provides a great foundation for a productive home orchard.
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: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Meriwether County have?
Meriwether County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 58% sand, 23% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Meriwether County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Meriwether County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Meriwether County?
Meriwether 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 Meriwether County's soil?
Based on Meriwether County's Clay loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Meriwether County?
Meriwether 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 Meriwether 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.