Acadia Parish Soil Data
Acadia Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Acadia Parish, Louisiana
Acidic and Silty Acadia Soils
Acadia Parish features an average pH of 5.44, making it notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data remains unclassified, these acidic levels typically require lime amendments for optimal crop growth. Local growers manage this chemistry to support the region's historic agricultural roots.
High Silt Content Drives Texture
The soil composition is dominated by 60.7% silt, balanced by 20.2% clay and 14.5% sand. This high silt percentage creates a smooth, floury texture that offers good workability but can be prone to erosion. The moderate clay levels help the soil hold onto nutrients more effectively than sandy alternatives.
Strong Water Capacity Despite Lower Organic Matter
The soil contains 2.58% organic matter, which beats the national average of 2.0% but lags behind the Louisiana average of 6.38%. However, its available water capacity of 0.192 in/in is superior to the state average of 0.182 in/in. This allows the land to store moisture efficiently for plants during dry spells.
Moisture Retention in a Humid Climate
Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted for this parish. However, the high silt content and strong water capacity suggest that the land retains moisture well. Gardeners should still monitor for standing water following the heavy rains common in South Louisiana.
Abundant Growth in Zone 9a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, Acadia Parish is ideal for heat-tolerant vegetables and citrus trees. The combination of silty soil and high moisture capacity supports productive rice and soybean crops. Home gardeners should feel encouraged to start a plot, as the long growing season offers ample opportunity for success.
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: Silt 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 Acadia Parish have?
Acadia Parish's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 61% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Acadia Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Acadia Parish'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 Acadia Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Acadia Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Acadia Parish's soil?
Based on Acadia Parish's Silt 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 Acadia Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Acadia Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Acadia Parish
Soil Verdict
Acadia Parish 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
Acadia Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Acadia Parish on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Louisiana
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.