Plaquemines Parish Soil Data
Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
26.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana
Neutral Coastal Richness
Plaquemines Parish boasts an average pH of 6.46, which is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5. This makes it some of the most chemically balanced soil in Louisiana, far exceeding the state's 5.74 average pH.
Clay-Heavy Alluvial Deposits
The soil is 37.3% clay and 28.4% silt, with only 10.5% sand. These fine sediments were deposited by the Mississippi River, creating a dense, nutrient-locking matrix that is characteristic of the deep delta.
Unrivaled Organic Matter
The organic matter content is an incredible 26.21%, the highest in this group and vastly exceeding the national 2.0% average. Its available water capacity of 0.235 in/in ensures the soil can hold immense moisture for plant use.
Hydric and Heavy
The data lacks a specific drainage class, but the high clay and organic levels suggest very slow drainage. In this coastal environment, soil is often saturated, requiring specialized agricultural practices.
Citrus Capital of Zone 9b
This parish is famous for its citrus, which thrives in the rich, neutral soil and warm 9b climate. Start a home orchard or garden to take advantage of this world-class natural 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
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 Plaquemines Parish have?
Plaquemines Parish's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 10% sand, 28% silt, and 37% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Plaquemines Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Plaquemines Parish's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Plaquemines Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Plaquemines Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Plaquemines Parish's soil?
Based on Plaquemines Parish's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Plaquemines Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Plaquemines Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Plaquemines Parish
Soil Verdict
Plaquemines 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
Plaquemines 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 Plaquemines 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.