Livingston Parish Soil Data
Livingston Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Livingston Parish, Louisiana
Silty and rich acidic ground
Livingston Parish features an average pH of 5.40, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level sits just below the Louisiana state average of 5.74, defining the parish's chemical profile.
Silt-heavy soil profile
Silt makes up 55.4% of the soil, providing a smooth texture that is easy to manage. The balance of 25.6% sand and 18.1% clay creates a soil that holds moisture well without being as heavy as pure clay.
Above-average organic richness
The parish contains 6.65% organic matter, which exceeds the state average of 6.38% and tripled the national average. This richness drives a high available water capacity of 0.208 in/in, ensuring plants have access to moisture.
Excellent moisture management
The high silt content and strong water capacity indicate that this soil is naturally resilient. While specific drainage classes are not provided, the physical data suggests a very productive environment for both agriculture and landscaping.
Lush landscapes in Zone 9a
Livingston Parish is ideal for a wide variety of plants thanks to its rich organic content and zone 9a climate. Gardeners can expect vigorous growth for everything from summer vegetables to ornamental shrubs.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Livingston Parish have?
Livingston Parish's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 55% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Livingston Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Livingston 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 Livingston Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Livingston Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Livingston Parish's soil?
Based on Livingston Parish's Silt 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 Livingston Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Livingston Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Livingston Parish
Soil Verdict
Livingston 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
Livingston Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Livingston 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.