Lafayette County Soil Data
Lafayette County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Lafayette County, Mississippi
A foundation of Alfisols
Lafayette County features Alfisols with an average pH of 5.33. This is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.30, though it still falls below the national 6.5 median.
Rich silt loam texture
The dominant texture is silt loam, composed of 54.2% silt and 30.6% sand. This high silt content makes the soil incredibly easy to work and excellent at retaining essential nutrients.
Superior water holding capacity
While organic matter is lower at 1.28%, the available water capacity is a robust 0.183 in/in. This exceeds the state average of 0.174 in/in, meaning the soil acts as an efficient sponge for crops.
Moderately well-drained land
These soils are moderately well-drained and belong to Hydrologic Group C. This indicates a somewhat slow rate of water transmission, which is helpful for moisture-loving plants but requires attention to runoff.
Diverse garden potential
Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, this area is perfect for growing diverse produce from collard greens to peaches. The high water capacity gives local gardeners a significant advantage during the warmer months.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lafayette County have?
Lafayette County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 54% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lafayette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lafayette County'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 Lafayette County?
Lafayette County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Lafayette County's soil?
Based on Lafayette County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Lafayette County?
Lafayette County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lafayette 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.