Lee County Soil Data

Lee County, Mississippi

Avg pH

5.5

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.8%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Lee County, Mississippi

Lee County's Acidic Ground Profile

Lee County soils feature an average pH of 5.54, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is slightly less acidic than the Mississippi state average of 5.30. While local taxonomic records are limited, the soil health score of 38.6 sits comfortably above the statewide average of 35.7.

A Balanced Mix of Silt and Sand

The soil composition is evenly balanced between 42.3% silt and 39.5% sand, with a 18.2% clay component. This mix provides a stable texture that prevents the heavy compaction often found in clay-heavy regions. These ratios suggest a ground that is easy to work while maintaining enough structure to support varied root systems.

Modest Organic Content for Growing

At 1.77%, the organic matter content is just below the Mississippi average of 1.81% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity measures 0.166 in/in, slightly trailing the state average of 0.174 in/in. Gardeners should consider adding compost to boost these levels for maximum productivity.

Hydrology and Water Management

Official drainage classes are not recorded for this area, but the 39.5% sand content suggests naturally efficient water movement. The soil’s ability to hold water is respectable, though it may require more frequent irrigation during the dry summer months. Proper site grading remains essential for managing runoff in this landscape.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 8a

Lee County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, offering a long growing season for heat-tolerant vegetables and perennials. Blueberries and camellias thrive in the county's naturally acidic soil profile. Start your garden today to take advantage of the region's above-average soil score.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 39.5%
Silt: 42.3%
Clay: 18.2%
Loam

Soil pH

5.5pH
5.54417196251485
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Lee County have?

Lee County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 42% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Lee County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Lee County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Lee County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Lee County.

What crops or plants grow well in Lee County's soil?

Based on Lee County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Lee County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Lee County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.