Claiborne Parish Soil Data
Claiborne Parish, Louisiana
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana
Highly acidic and sandy northern soils
Claiborne Parish has an average pH of 5.37, making it more acidic than the state average of 5.74 and the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is common in the sandy uplands of North Louisiana. Gardeners here will likely need to use lime to balance the soil for most vegetable varieties.
Dominantly sandy with very little clay
Sand dominates the soil here at 64.6%, while clay accounts for only 10.1%. This composition ensures rapid drainage but results in poor nutrient retention and frequent drying. The 25.3% silt provides just enough body to prevent the soil from being pure sand.
Low water retention and organic content
The available water capacity is quite low at 0.128 in/in, falling well below the state average of 0.182 in/in. Organic matter is also sparse at 1.72% compared to the state's 6.38%. These factors contribute to a lower soil score of 23.0, necessitating heavy mulching and irrigation.
Rapid drainage with runoff risks
Surprisingly, this parish is classified under Hydrologic Group D, which typically suggests high runoff despite the sandy texture. This usually occurs when a restrictive layer sits beneath the sandy surface, preventing deep infiltration. Managing water flow is critical to prevent erosion in these upland areas.
Resilient gardening in Zone 8b
Hardiness Zone 8b is perfect for heat-loving plants, but the sandy soil requires extra care. Focus on native plants like blueberries that thrive in acidic, well-drained conditions. With consistent watering and organic additions, you can transform this challenging 23.0 score into a blooming landscape.
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 Claiborne Parish have?
Claiborne Parish's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 25% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Claiborne Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Claiborne 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 Claiborne Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Claiborne Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Claiborne Parish's soil?
Based on Claiborne 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 Claiborne Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Claiborne Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Claiborne 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.