Ware County Soil Data
Ware County, Georgia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.4
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
10.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ware County, Georgia
Deeply Acidic Coastal Soils
Ware County features a highly acidic soil profile with an average pH of 4.38. This is significantly more acidic than both the state average of 5.26 and the national median of 6.5.
High Sand and Low Clay
The soil is dominated by 74.6% sand, with very low silt and clay levels at 5.4% and 5.9% respectively. This high sand content typically allows for rapid drainage but offers limited ability to retain fertilizers.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter is impressively high at 10.14%, dwarfing the state average of 1.83%. Coupled with a water capacity of 0.139 in/in, this soil holds high potential despite its extreme acidity.
Fast Drainage Considerations
While specific drainage classes are unlisted, the 74.6% sand percentage indicates rapid water movement. Gardeners should monitor for moisture loss during the hot, dry spells common in South Georgia.
Acid-Loving Plants in Zone 9a
This Zone 9a region is perfect for heat-loving crops and acid-loving plants like blueberries. Your high organic matter provides a strong foundation for a productive and thriving home garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ware County have?
Ware County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 75% sand, 5% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ware County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ware County's soil has a low pH of 4.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Ware County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ware County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ware County's soil?
Based on Ware County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 4.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Ware County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ware County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ware County
Soil Verdict
Ware 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
Ware County is somewhat warmer than the Georgia statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ware 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.