Harrison County Soil Data
Harrison County, Mississippi
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Harrison County, Mississippi
Acidic Gulf Coast Profile
Harrison County's soil is acidic with an average pH of 5.02, which is lower than the 6.5 national median. This reading is slightly more acidic than the state average of 5.30, typical for the Gulf Coast region.
The Sandiest Soils in the Group
At 66.6%, Harrison County has the highest sand percentage in the study area. Silt makes up 23.3% and clay is very low at 8.2%, resulting in a very gritty texture that provides exceptional drainage.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The county boasts an organic matter content of 3.28%, the highest in the group and far above the 2.0% national average. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.124 in/in, the lowest among its neighbors.
Rapid Water Movement
Limited taxonomic and drainage data is available for this area. The extreme sand concentration suggests that water moves through the soil rapidly, preventing saturation but increasing the need for supplemental irrigation.
Year-Round Growth in 9a
Harrison County is in Hardiness Zone 9a, allowing for a nearly year-round growing season. The high organic matter is perfect for starting a lush garden filled with palms, hibiscus, and heat-tolerant herbs.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Harrison County have?
Harrison County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 67% sand, 23% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Harrison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Harrison County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Harrison County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Harrison County.
What crops or plants grow well in Harrison County's soil?
Based on Harrison County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Harrison County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Harrison County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Harrison County
Soil Verdict
Harrison County 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
Harrison County is somewhat warmer than the Mississippi statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Harrison County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Mississippi
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.