Pierce County Soil Data
Pierce County, Georgia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Pierce County, Georgia
Acidic Ultisols Define the Pierce Landscape
Pierce County is characterized by sandy loam soils belonging to the Ultisols taxonomic order. With an average pH of 5.04, the ground is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and slightly below the state average of 5.26.
A Gritty Mix Dominated by Sand
The soil profile consists of 81.1% sand, 12.6% silt, and only 6.4% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent workability but indicates the soil may struggle to retain essential nutrients for long periods.
Strong Organic Matter but Low Water Storage
Organic matter reaches a healthy 2.33%, which beats the Georgia average of 1.83% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.076 in/in, meaning plants require consistent irrigation during dry spells.
Well-Drained Soils with Selective Infiltration
Most of the county features well-drained soil, though it falls into hydrologic group C. This combination suggests that while surface drainage is good, the subsoil may restrict water movement more than pure sand would.
Heat-Loving Crops Thrive in Zone 9a
In USDA hardiness zone 9a, Pierce County offers a long, warm growing season. Blueberries and pecans are excellent choices for this acidic, sandy environment, provided you manage the low water retention.
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
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 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pierce County have?
Pierce County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 81% sand, 13% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pierce County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pierce 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 Pierce County?
Pierce 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 Pierce County's soil?
Based on Pierce County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Pierce County?
Pierce 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: Pierce County
Soil Verdict
Pierce County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Pierce County is somewhat warmer than the Georgia statewide average. The zone range of 8b-9a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pierce 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.