Madison Parish Soil Data
Madison Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Madison Parish, Louisiana
Neutral Soils in a Delta Landscape
Madison Parish features an average soil pH of 6.41, which sits comfortably near the national median of 6.5. This is significantly less acidic than the Louisiana state average of 5.74, providing a versatile chemical foundation for local agriculture.
A Silty, Clay-Rich Foundation
The soil contains 41.7% silt and 36.0% clay, creating a heavy texture that holds onto nutrients effectively. With only 22.3% sand, these fields require careful management to maintain workability and prevent compaction.
Modest Organic Matter Levels
The organic matter content stands at 1.88%, trailing both the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 6.38%. The available water capacity of 0.155 in/in indicates a moderate ability to sustain crops through dry spells.
Managing the Water Table
While specific drainage class data is limited for this area, the heavy clay content typically suggests slower water movement. Farmers and builders should monitor localized runoff patterns during the intense Louisiana rainy season.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8b
In USDA Zone 8b, these soils are ideal for cotton, corn, and soybeans. Home gardeners can take advantage of the near-neutral pH to grow a wide variety of vegetables with minimal soil amendments.
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison Parish have?
Madison Parish's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 42% silt, and 36% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison Parish's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Madison Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Madison Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Madison Parish's soil?
Based on Madison Parish's Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Madison Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Madison Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Madison Parish
Soil Verdict
Madison 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
Madison Parish is somewhat cooler than the Louisiana statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Madison 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.