Jackson County Soil Data
Jackson County, Mississippi
Avg pH
4.8
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Jackson County, Mississippi
Extremely Acidic Coastal Entisols
Jackson County features Entisols with a very low average pH of 4.75, making it one of the most acidic counties in the state. This level is significantly below the Mississippi average of 5.30 and nearly two points away from the national median of 6.5. This acidity is a defining trait of the local coastal ecosystem.
Dominantly Sandy Coastal Composition
The soil is 59.4% sand, the highest sand content among these counties, with only 9.1% clay. This 'Sand' dominant texture provides excellent aeration but offers very little natural structural stability. It is easy to dig but prone to shifting and rapid leaching.
Abundant Organic Matter with Low Retention
Remarkably, Jackson County has 4.05% organic matter, more than double the state average of 1.81%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is low at 0.144 in/in. This suggests that while the soil is nutrient-rich, it drains so quickly that plants may need supplemental water.
Poorly Drained with High Runoff Risk
Classified as poorly drained and part of hydrologic group D, these soils often have a high water table despite their sandy texture. This combination creates unique challenges for construction and septic systems. Large rain events may lead to surface saturation despite the high sand content.
Year-Round Growing in Zone 9a
In the warm 9a hardiness zone, Jackson County gardeners can grow almost year-round. The high organic matter is perfect for tropical ornamentals and citrus, provided you manage the extreme acidity. Start a coastal garden today and enjoy the benefits of this rich, sandy soil.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jackson County have?
Jackson County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 59% sand, 27% silt, and 9% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jackson County's soil has a low pH of 4.8, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Jackson County?
Jackson County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Jackson County's soil?
Based on Jackson County's Sand texture, pH of 4.8, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Jackson County?
Jackson County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jackson 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.