Paulding County Soil Data
Paulding County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Paulding County, Georgia
Paulding's Sandy Loam Identity
Paulding County soils are primarily Ultisols with a sandy loam texture that is very common in the region. The average pH is 5.42, which is more acidic than the national 6.5 median but typical for Georgia. This soil profile defines the landscape and dictates local farming practices.
Light Texture for Easy Farming
With a composition of 60.2% sand, 23.5% silt, and 15.6% clay, the soil is relatively light and easy to till. The high sand content prevents the ground from becoming too heavy or sticky when wet. This makes it an ideal environment for roots to expand and grow deep.
Exceptional Moisture Storage Potential
Organic matter sits at 1.29%, trailing the Georgia state average of 1.83%. Despite this, the available water capacity is a robust 0.140 in/in, far exceeding the state benchmark of 0.114. This soil is excellent at storing the water your plants need to survive summer heat.
Moderate Infiltration for Easy Planning
The county's soil is well drained and categorized in hydrologic group B. This group features moderate infiltration rates, making the land predictable for drainage and construction. It is generally a forgiving environment for both home gardeners and commercial builders.
Start Your Zone 8a Garden
Zone 8a offers a long, productive growing season with a mild winter transition. You can grow a wide variety of crops here, from tomatoes to fruit trees and ornamentals. Use the county's superior water capacity to grow a lush, vibrant landscape.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Paulding County have?
Paulding County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 24% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Paulding County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Paulding 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 Paulding County?
Paulding 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 Paulding County's soil?
Based on Paulding 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 Paulding County?
Paulding 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 Paulding 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.