Ascension Parish Soil Data
Ascension Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ascension Parish, Louisiana
Balanced pH in River Country
Ascension Parish boasts an average pH of 6.27, coming very close to the national ideal of 6.5. This relatively neutral acidity makes it one of the more versatile soils in the state for varied agriculture. Although taxonomic orders are not listed, this pH provides a healthy foundation for most plant life.
Silty Clay Textures Dominate
The soil is comprised of 54.9% silt and 36.3% clay, with a very low 8.5% sand content. This heavy, silty texture excels at holding nutrients and providing a firm root base. However, the high clay content means the soil can become compacted and difficult to work if handled while too wet.
High Organic Matter and Water Storage
Ascension's 4.16% organic matter is more than double the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.186 in/in—which exceeds the state average—this soil is highly fertile. These numbers indicate a strong ability to support vigorous plant growth and resist moisture stress.
Managing Heavier Soils
While specific drainage classes are not currently available in the dataset, the high clay levels suggest a slower drainage rate. This can lead to ponding during heavy Louisiana rains, a factor builders and farmers must consider. Proper site grading is essential to manage water flow in these heavy soils.
Prime Gardening in Zone 9a
The fertile, near-neutral soil and Zone 9a climate make Ascension Parish a gardener's dream. It is well-suited for everything from sweet potatoes to summer squashes. With such high organic matter, your garden is already off to a fantastic start.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ascension Parish have?
Ascension Parish's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 8% sand, 55% silt, and 36% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ascension Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ascension Parish's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Ascension Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ascension Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Ascension Parish's soil?
Based on Ascension Parish's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Ascension Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ascension Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ascension Parish
Soil Verdict
Ascension 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
Ascension Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ascension 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.