Monroe County Soil Data
Monroe County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Monroe County, Mississippi
Monroe's Balanced Acidic Soil Profile
Monroe County soil has a pH of 5.39, making it slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.30. However, it remains acidic compared to the national median of 6.5. The overall soil score of 35.4 is nearly identical to the Mississippi state average of 35.7.
A Sandy-Silt Blend for Stability
The composition is a mix of 42.2% sand and 38.7% silt, with 19.1% clay. This balanced blend provides both the drainage of sand and the nutrient-holding capacity of silt and clay. This texture is generally stable for construction and versatile for many types of farming.
Steady Fertility and Water Metrics
The organic matter content is 1.76%, sitting just below the state benchmark of 1.81%. Available water capacity measures 0.168 in/in, which is also close to the Mississippi average of 0.174 in/in. These middle-of-the-road numbers suggest a reliable soil that responds well to standard fertilization.
Predictable Drainage and Moderate Hold
With sand as the largest component, Monroe County soils typically enjoy good drainage and aeration. While specific drainage classes aren't recorded, the 19.1% clay content ensures the soil doesn't dry out instantly. This creates a predictable environment for both landscape irrigation and stormwater management.
Cultivating Crops in Zone 8a
Located in Zone 8a, Monroe County provides a great climate for southern favorites like peaches and sweet potatoes. The soil's balanced texture supports a wide variety of plant life with minimal specialized care. It is an approachable environment for first-time gardeners looking to start a backyard plot.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Monroe County have?
Monroe County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 39% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Monroe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Monroe 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 Monroe County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Monroe County.
What crops or plants grow well in Monroe County's soil?
Based on Monroe County's 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 Monroe County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Monroe County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Monroe 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.