Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, Mississippi
Madison County's Top-Tier Soil Quality
Madison County boasts a high soil score of 45.9, significantly outperforming the state average of 35.7. The average pH is 5.37, which is slightly less acidic than the statewide average of 5.30 but still below the national median of 6.5. This region is known for some of the most productive ground in the state.
Dominant Silt Content Defines the Land
The soil is remarkably silty, with silt making up a dominant 68.6% of the composition. Sand is low at 18.5%, and clay accounts for 12.9%, creating a fine-textured soil that is very smooth. This high silt ratio allows for excellent nutrient distribution but can be prone to erosion if left uncovered.
Exceptional Water Capacity for Crops
Madison County features an impressive available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.174 in/in. While organic matter is lower than average at 1.47%, the soil's ability to hold moisture makes it highly resilient. This high capacity is a major factor in the county's superior soil score.
Water Retention and Silt Management
With silt levels near 70%, this soil acts like a sponge, holding onto water longer than sandy neighbors. Although specific drainage data is unavailable, the high water capacity suggests slow but steady percolation. Gardeners should watch for surface crusting, a common trait in silt-heavy soils after heavy rains.
Thriving in Madison's Zone 8b
Madison County's Zone 8b climate and high-capacity soil are ideal for thirsty crops like corn and leafy greens. The soil's physical properties are perfect for established trees and extensive vegetable gardens. Take advantage of this high-scoring soil to grow a lush, productive landscape.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 69% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Madison County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Madison County.
What crops or plants grow well in Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Madison County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Madison County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.