Natchitoches Parish Soil Data
Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana
A Typical Louisiana Acidic Profile
Natchitoches Parish maintains an average soil pH of 5.79, almost exactly matching the Louisiana state average. This level is notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime for optimal crop yields.
Sandy Texture with Fast Drainage
The soil composition is 44.5% sand, which is quite high for the region, balanced by 33.0% silt and 22.4% clay. This sand-heavy mix allows for easier tilling and faster drainage than the heavier clays found eastward.
Lower Organic Reserves
At 1.76%, organic matter is lower than the national 2.0% average and well below the state average of 6.38%. The available water capacity of 0.156 in/in suggests the soil may dry out faster than the state average of 0.182 in/in.
High Runoff Potential
Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils have a very high runoff potential when thoroughly wet. This suggests that despite the sandy texture, deep drainage is restricted, which is a critical consideration for site planning.
Planting in Zone 9a
The long growing season in Zone 9a is perfect for heat-tolerant varieties of peppers and tomatoes. Gardeners should prioritize adding compost to boost the relatively low organic matter levels.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Natchitoches Parish have?
Natchitoches Parish's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 33% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Natchitoches Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Natchitoches Parish's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Natchitoches Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Natchitoches Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Natchitoches Parish's soil?
Based on Natchitoches Parish's Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Natchitoches Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Natchitoches Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Natchitoches Parish
Soil Verdict
Natchitoches 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
Natchitoches Parish closely matches the Louisiana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8b-9a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Natchitoches 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.