East Baton Rouge Parish Soil Data
East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
Acidic Entisols defining the capital landscape
East Baton Rouge Parish features young Entisols with a pH of 5.51, reflecting a more acidic profile than the state average of 5.74. This acidity sits significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a need for lime treatments in many local gardens.
Silt-heavy soils present texture challenges
The soil contains 60.4% silt and 20.3% clay, creating a dense structure that holds moisture but can be difficult to work. With only 17.2% sand, these soils lack the gritty particles needed for fast drainage.
Below-average organic matter limits nutrient storage
Organic matter stands at 1.99%, trailing both the Louisiana average of 6.38% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.183 in/in slightly exceeds the state average, providing a reliable reservoir for plant roots.
Managing water in very poorly drained basins
Classified as very poorly drained with a Hydrologic Group D rating, these soils face frequent saturation. This combination indicates high runoff potential and requires careful site planning for both farming and construction.
Year-round growth in Hardiness Zone 9a
Louisiana's capital region thrives with citrus, figs, and heat-tolerant greens despite the heavy soils. Improving drainage and balancing pH will help you unlock the full potential of your Zone 9a garden.
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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
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 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does East Baton Rouge Parish have?
East Baton Rouge Parish's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 60% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is East Baton Rouge Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
East Baton Rouge Parish's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for East Baton Rouge Parish?
East Baton Rouge Parish has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in East Baton Rouge Parish's soil?
Based on East Baton Rouge Parish's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in East Baton Rouge Parish?
East Baton Rouge Parish's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: East Baton Rouge Parish
Soil Verdict
East Baton Rouge 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
East Baton Rouge Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for East Baton Rouge 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.