Spalding County Soil Data
Spalding County, Georgia
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Spalding County, Georgia
Spalding’s Classic Ultisol Profile
Spalding County is defined by its Ultisols and a sandy loam texture common to the Georgia Piedmont. The average pH of 5.33 is slightly higher than the state average of 5.26 but far below the national median of 6.5. These weathered, acidic soils are the foundation of the county's natural landscape.
Balanced Loam with Clay Presence
The soil contains 56.8% sand, 23.7% silt, and 17.7% clay, creating a sandy loam that holds more moisture than coastal areas. This mix offers a better balance of drainage and nutrient retention than the state's sandier counties. However, the clay content can make the soil heavy and difficult to work when wet.
Low Organic Matter, High Water Storage
Organic matter is quite low at 1.14%, falling well behind the state average of 1.83%. Despite this, the available water capacity is high at 0.128 in/in, which is better than the state benchmark of 0.114. This soil stores water well, but it needs supplemental nutrients to be fully productive.
Poorly Drained Hydrologic Group D
Unlike many neighbors, Spalding's dominant soil is poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group D. These soils have high runoff potential and a very low infiltration rate when wet. Builders and farmers must plan for significant water management to prevent flooding and soil saturation.
Gardening Success in Zone 8a
Hardiness zone 8a allows for a diverse range of plantings from cool-weather kale to summer tomatoes. Because the soil holds water so well, moisture-loving plants like hydrangeas and ferns will flourish here. Start a garden this season and capitalize on your soil's excellent water retention.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
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 Spalding County have?
Spalding County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 24% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Spalding County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Spalding 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 Spalding County?
Spalding County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Spalding County's soil?
Based on Spalding County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.3, and 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 Spalding County?
Spalding 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 Spalding 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.