Hinds County Soil Data
Hinds County, Mississippi
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hinds County, Mississippi
Moderately Acidic Soils in the State Capital
Hinds County soil averages a pH of 5.36, which sits slightly above the Mississippi average of 5.30. However, this remains significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is limited, the acidic profile is a defining characteristic for local land management.
A Silt-Heavy Foundation for Hinds
The soil composition is dominated by silt at 69.2%, with sand at 17.7% and clay at 13.1%. This heavy silt concentration creates a fine texture that is generally easy to work but susceptible to compaction. The low clay content suggests moderate nutrient holding capacity.
Superior Water Retention Despite Lower Organic Matter
At 1.45%, the organic matter content falls below the state average of 1.81% and the national average of 2.0%. Despite this, the soil maintains an impressive available water capacity of 0.210 in/in. This exceeds the state average of 0.174, providing a resilient moisture reservoir for crops.
Managing Water Flow in Silt Landscapes
While specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are unavailable for this county, the high silt content typically dictates water behavior. These soils generally absorb water well but can become saturated quickly during heavy Mississippi rainstorms. Builders should verify local conditions before starting foundation work.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8b
Hinds County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, providing a long and productive growing season. The acidic soil and high water capacity are ideal for blueberries, azaleas, and heat-tolerant vegetables. Start your backyard garden today to take advantage of these unique growing conditions.
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: Silt 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 Hinds County have?
Hinds County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 69% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hinds County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hinds County'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 Hinds County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hinds County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hinds County's soil?
Based on Hinds County's Silt 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 Hinds County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hinds County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hinds County
Soil Verdict
Hinds County 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
Hinds County closely matches the Mississippi average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hinds 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.