Sabine Parish Soil Data
Sabine Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Sabine Parish, Louisiana
Highly Acidic and Sandy Landscapes
Sabine Parish presents a very acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.43, well below the national target of 6.5. This acidity is typical of East Louisiana and East Texas timberlands where pines often thrive. Taxonomic data is limited, but the chemical profile suggests a need for soil amendments in traditional gardens.
Sand Dominates the Profile
With a high sand content of 60.8% and only 13.8% clay, these soils are coarse and porous. This composition means the soil is incredibly easy to dig and work, but it lacks the 'glue' provided by clay. Nutrient leaching can be an issue as water moves rapidly through the sandy layers.
Lower Reserves for Plant Growth
The organic matter is quite low at 1.55%, sitting below the national 2.0% average and the 6.38% state average. Available water capacity is also low at 0.135 in/in, meaning the soil dries out faster than the state average of 0.182 in/in. Frequent watering and heavy mulching are necessary to maintain moisture.
High Runoff in Group D
Despite the sandy texture, the soil is categorized in hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff potential during intense storms. This suggests that subsurface layers may be restrictive, preventing deep infiltration. Managing erosion is a priority for landowners on sloped terrains.
Thriving in Zone 8b Sands
The sandy soils of zone 8b are perfect for blueberries, camellias, and azaleas that love acidic conditions. Watermelons also flourish in this well-drained, sandy environment with proper fertilization. Get growing today by choosing plants that enjoy a lighter, faster-draining soil.
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: Sandy 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 Sabine Parish have?
Sabine Parish's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 61% sand, 25% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sabine Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sabine 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 Sabine Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Sabine Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Sabine Parish's soil?
Based on Sabine Parish's Sandy 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 Sabine Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Sabine Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sabine Parish
Soil Verdict
Sabine 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
Sabine Parish is somewhat cooler than the Louisiana statewide average. 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 Sabine 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.