Lee County Soil Data
Lee County, Mississippi
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lee County
Soil Verdict
Lee County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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
Lee County closely matches the Mississippi average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lee 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.