Jones County Soil Data
Jones County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.0
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Jones County, Mississippi
Highly acidic soil conditions
With an average pH of 4.95, Jones County soils are quite acidic. This level sits well below the state average of 5.30 and the national median of 6.5, requiring careful management for most plants.
Coarse texture with high sand
The soil profile is 57.5% sand and only 10.1% clay, creating a coarse texture. This composition allows for excellent aeration but means nutrients can leach away more quickly than in heavier soils.
Lower water storage capacity
Organic matter averages 1.65%, trailing both the state average of 1.81% and the national 2.0% benchmark. An available water capacity of 0.150 in/in further confirms these soils have a limited reserve for plants during dry spells.
Rapid water movement
Though official drainage classifications are limited, the dominance of sand suggests a naturally well-draining environment. This makes the area suitable for building foundations, though agricultural use requires careful irrigation management.
Home for acid-loving perennials
In Hardiness Zone 8b, camellias and azaleas love this naturally acidic soil. Start your garden with acid-loving perennials or southern peas to take full advantage of the local 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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jones County have?
Jones County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 30% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jones County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jones 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 Jones County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jones County.
What crops or plants grow well in Jones County's soil?
Based on Jones 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 Jones County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jones County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jones 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.