Vernon Parish Soil Data
Vernon Parish, Louisiana
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Vernon Parish, Louisiana
Acidic and Sandy Uplands
Vernon Parish has a soil score of 26.6, which reflects its challenging growing conditions compared to the state average. The soil is quite acidic with an average pH of 5.36, falling significantly below the national median of 6.5. This low pH profile often requires lime amendments for most traditional vegetable gardening.
A Dominance of Sand
The soil composition is primarily sand at 56.8%, followed by 29.3% silt and only 13.9% clay. This high sand content ensures fast drainage but often struggles to retain the nutrients necessary for hungry crops. Growers will find the soil easy to work and dig, though it dries out quickly.
Low Organic Reserves
Organic matter stands at just 1.66%, which is well below both the state average of 6.38% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.143 in/in, meaning plants may need supplemental irrigation during dry spells. Heavy composting is recommended to build up the soil's natural fertility.
Rapid Runoff Challenges
The parish is characterized by Hydrologic Group D, which typically indicates high runoff potential when the soil is saturated. Despite the sandy texture, this classification suggests restricted water movement through the deeper profile. This can lead to flash flooding or surface pooling during intense Louisiana storms.
Gardening in Zone 9a
Vernon Parish sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, offering a long growing season for heat-tolerant plants. Blueberries and pines thrive in these acidic, sandy conditions where other crops might struggle. With proper irrigation and organic amendments, your backyard garden can still become a productive oasis.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Vernon Parish have?
Vernon Parish's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 29% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Vernon Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Vernon 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 Vernon Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Vernon Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Vernon Parish's soil?
Based on Vernon 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 Vernon Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Vernon Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Vernon 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.