Webster Parish Soil Data
Webster Parish, Louisiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Webster Parish, Louisiana
Acidic Uplands of Webster
Webster Parish presents an average soil pH of 5.33, indicating a fairly acidic environment compared to the national median of 6.5. Its soil score of 26.4 is one of the lower marks in the state, suggesting significant limitations for standard agriculture. Understanding this acidic baseline is the first step for any local land manager.
High Sand, Low Clay
The composition is dominated by 55.4% sand and 31.8% silt, while clay makes up only 12.8%. This texture allows for excellent aeration but results in poor retention of essential minerals and water. The soil is exceptionally easy to work, though it requires frequent amendments to stay productive.
Limited Natural Nutrients
Organic matter is low at 1.80%, failing to reach the national average of 2.0% and sitting far below the state average of 6.38%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.139 in/in, the lowest among neighboring parishes. These metrics point to a soil that needs significant organic input to support high-yield crops.
Runoff and Water Groups
Classified under Hydrologic Group D, the soil has a high runoff potential despite its sandy texture, likely due to restrictive subsurface layers. This means that while the surface may feel dry, water often flows across the land rather than soaking in deeply. Careful water management is required for both farming and home construction.
Gardening in Zone 8b
Webster Parish is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, which experiences slightly cooler winters than the coastal parishes. Native pines and blackberries are naturally suited to this acidic, sandy soil. For home gardeners, raised beds with imported soil may be the most efficient path to success.
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 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Webster Parish have?
Webster Parish's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 32% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Webster Parish's soil acidic or alkaline?
Webster Parish's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Webster Parish?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Webster Parish.
What crops or plants grow well in Webster Parish's soil?
Based on Webster Parish's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Webster Parish?
The dominant USDA soil order for Webster Parish is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Webster Parish
Soil Verdict
Webster 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
Webster Parish is somewhat cooler than the Louisiana statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Webster 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.