Jefferson Parish Soil Data
Jefferson Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
24.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana
Rich, dark soils near the coast
Jefferson Parish boasts a Soil Score of 85.9, driven by an average pH of 5.94. This pH is closer to the national median of 6.5 than most Louisiana counties, creating a more neutral environment for plant growth.
Dense clay dominates the landscape
The soil contains 35.9% clay and only 12.0% sand, leading to a heavy, nutrient-rich texture. While this mix provides excellent nutrient retention, it can be difficult to work and slow to drain after heavy storms.
Exceptional organic matter levels
The parish contains a massive 24.69% organic matter, nearly four times the 6.38% state average. This results in a high available water capacity of 0.220 in/in, providing plants with a deep reservoir of moisture.
Managed hydrology in a wet environment
With high clay and organic content, these soils naturally hold significant amounts of water. While specific drainage class data is unavailable, the physical composition suggests a landscape that remains saturated longer than inland parishes.
Subtropical gardening in Zone 9b
The mild winters of zone 9b and nutrient-dense soil support citrus trees and tropical ornamentals. Gardeners should focus on raised beds to manage the heavy clay and take advantage of the incredible fertility.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jefferson Parish have?
Jefferson Parish's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 12% sand, 26% silt, and 36% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jefferson Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jefferson Parish's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Jefferson Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jefferson Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Jefferson Parish's soil?
Based on Jefferson Parish's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Jefferson Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jefferson Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jefferson Parish
Soil Verdict
Jefferson Parish is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°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
Jefferson Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 9b-10a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jefferson 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.