Richland Parish Soil Data
Richland Parish, Louisiana
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Richland Parish, Louisiana
Entisols with a Sour Edge
Richland Parish is dominated by Entisols, which are relatively young soils with undeveloped layers. The average pH of 5.42 is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This low pH level often requires lime applications to unlock essential nutrients for most agricultural uses.
Rich in Silt, Low in Sand
The soil is remarkably high in silt at 61.2%, with a low sand content of only 12.3%. This silty profile makes the earth prone to compaction if worked while wet but offers excellent smooth texture. The 26.5% clay content provides enough structure to hold onto fertilizers effectively.
Strong Water Retention Potential
Available water capacity stands at 0.198 in/in, which surpasses the state average of 0.182 in/in. While organic matter at 2.73% is higher than the national average, it remains below Louisiana's high average of 6.38%. The high water capacity ensures plants have access to moisture during dry spells.
Managing Slow Drainage
The soil is classified as somewhat poorly drained and falls into the A/D hydrologic group. This dual classification means that while the soil can drain well in a natural state, high water tables often limit movement. Farmers must be mindful of drainage patterns when planning seasonal plantings.
Success in Silt for Zone 8b
Hardiness zone 8b supports a wide range of fruit trees and hearty vegetables like kale and squash. The silty Entisols are perfect for root crops and grains if the acidity is properly managed. Embrace the rich Louisiana climate and start your garden early this year.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Richland Parish have?
Richland Parish's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 12% sand, 61% silt, and 27% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Richland Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Richland 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 Richland Parish?
Richland Parish has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Richland Parish's soil?
Based on Richland Parish's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Richland Parish?
Richland Parish's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Richland 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.