Bienville Parish Soil Data
Bienville Parish, Louisiana
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Bienville Parish, Louisiana
Sandy and Acidic Northern Soils
Bienville Parish soil has a pH of 5.38, falling well below the national median of 6.5. This acidic profile is common in the northern hill country and reflects the parish's low Soil Score of 26.1. Though taxonomic data is unavailable, the soil's chemistry is a primary factor for local land use.
Light and Sandy Textures
The soil is largely sand at 57.0%, supported by 30.3% silt and 12.7% clay. This composition makes for very light soil that does not easily compact and is effortless to till. However, it lacks the 'thirst-quenching' clay that helps keep plants hydrated during dry spells.
Challenging Nutrient and Water Storage
With 1.72% organic matter and an available water capacity of only 0.138 in/in, this soil is among the least retentive in the state. Both figures sit below the Louisiana averages of 6.38% and 0.182 in/in, respectively. Gardeners must focus on building up soil health with mulches and organic amendments.
Slow Infiltration Despite Sand
Classified as Hydrologic Group D, these soils actually exhibit high runoff potential despite their sandy texture. This usually suggests a shallow depth to a nearly impervious layer, like a hardpan, which blocks water from sinking deep. Managing water flow is critical to prevent erosion on sloped terrain.
Summer Success in Zone 8b
Located in Zone 8b, Bienville Parish is great for heat-loving peppers and Southern peas. The sandy soil is excellent for watermelons, which prefer the loose texture for root development. Start small, add organic matter, and watch your garden flourish in the North Louisiana sun.
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
Drainage class data not available.
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 Bienville Parish have?
Bienville Parish's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 30% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bienville Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bienville 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 Bienville Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bienville Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Bienville Parish's soil?
Based on Bienville Parish's Sandy 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 Bienville Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bienville Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bienville 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.