Tangipahoa Parish Soil Data
Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana
Tangipahoa's Strongly Acidic Profile
Average pH in the parish is 5.09, which is lower than the state average of 5.74 and well below the national median of 6.5. This acidity is a defining characteristic of the local piney woods environment.
Balanced Texture for Easier Working
The soil is a balanced blend of 37.2% sand, 40.1% silt, and 17.5% clay. This composition offers better workability and drainage than the heavy clay soils found elsewhere in the state.
Strong Fertility Above State Benchmarks
Organic matter content is high at 8.74%, comfortably exceeding the Louisiana average of 6.38%. The available water capacity of 0.190 in/in also beats the state average, providing a great buffer for crops.
Efficient Water Management Potential
Though specific drainage classes aren't listed, the 37.2% sand content suggests relatively good surface infiltration. This texture generally helps prevent the long-term saturation common in heavier clay regions.
Ideal for Strawberries in Zone 9a
Tangipahoa is famous for strawberries, which thrive in this acidic, high-organic soil. With a soil score of 55.6 and a long growing season, it is the perfect time to plant your favorite berries.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Tangipahoa Parish have?
Tangipahoa Parish's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 40% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tangipahoa Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tangipahoa Parish's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Tangipahoa Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Tangipahoa Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Tangipahoa Parish's soil?
Based on Tangipahoa Parish's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, 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 Tangipahoa Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Tangipahoa Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Tangipahoa Parish
Soil Verdict
Tangipahoa 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
Tangipahoa 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 Tangipahoa 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.