Carter County Soil Data
Carter County, Kentucky
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Carter County, Kentucky
Strongly Acidic Eastern Soils
Carter County has a notably acidic average pH of 5.44, well below the state average of 5.80 and the national median of 6.5. This low pH contributes to a soil score of 50.7, reflecting more challenging growing conditions.
Gritty Silt and Sand Mix
The soil contains 48.9% silt and a relatively high 30.8% sand, which improves aeration and workability. With 18.0% clay, these soils offer a lighter texture compared to many heavy clay regions in the state.
Rich Organic Matter Levels
The organic matter content is 3.58%, slightly exceeding the state average of 3.55%. However, the available water capacity of 0.177 in/in is lower than the state benchmark, suggesting these soils may dry out faster.
Drainage Dynamics in Carter
Specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not available for this area. The higher sand content likely aids in water movement, though the high acidity may require lime for optimal nutrient uptake.
Ready for Zone 6b
In Hardiness Zone 6b, Carter County is perfect for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. Your garden has great potential, especially if you focus on plants that thrive in these gritty, organic-rich soils.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carter County have?
Carter County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 49% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carter County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carter 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 Carter County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Carter County.
What crops or plants grow well in Carter County's soil?
Based on Carter County's Loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Carter County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Carter County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Carter County
Soil Verdict
Carter County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Carter County is somewhat cooler than the Kentucky statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Carter County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Kentucky
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.