Jackson Parish Soil Data
Jackson Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Jackson Parish, Louisiana
Acidic soil in the northern piney woods
Jackson Parish features a highly acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.23. This is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and falls below the Louisiana state average of 5.74. While taxonomic data is currently unclassified, the pH levels define the local growing environment.
Sandy ground with low clay content
The soil is predominantly sand at 55.3%, which makes it easy to work but less effective at holding nutrients. With only 14.0% clay and 30.7% silt, these soils typically drain quickly but may struggle to stay fertile without supplementation.
Modest organic levels and water retention
The parish holds 1.86% organic matter, which is slightly below the national 2.0% average and far behind the 6.38% state average. Consequently, the available water capacity of 0.137 in/in is lower than the state benchmark of 0.182 in/in, indicating lower drought resistance.
Slow infiltration in Hydrologic Group D
Despite the sandy texture, the soil belongs to Hydrologic Group D, suggesting it has a high runoff potential when thoroughly wet. While specific drainage class data is unavailable, this classification warns of potential pooling during heavy Louisiana rains.
Garden success in Zone 8b
The local climate in hardiness zone 8b pairs with sandy soils to favor acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. With proper irrigation to manage the lower water capacity, Jackson Parish residents can maintain productive vegetable gardens.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jackson Parish have?
Jackson Parish's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 31% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jackson Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jackson Parish's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Jackson Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jackson Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Jackson Parish's soil?
Based on Jackson Parish's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Jackson Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jackson Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jackson Parish
Soil Verdict
Jackson Parish is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Jackson Parish is somewhat cooler than the Louisiana statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jackson 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.