Pearl River County Soil Data
Pearl River County, Mississippi
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.9
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pearl River County, Mississippi
Deep South Acidic Sand
Pearl River County soils are highly acidic, sporting a 4.89 pH that is significantly lower than the 5.30 state average. This puts it far below the 6.5 national median, indicating a need for soil amendments in most gardening scenarios.
Sandy and Easy to Dig
The soil is predominantly sand at 57.0%, with only 11.0% clay to bind it together. This sandy profile allows for very easy digging but means the soil does not naturally hold onto many nutrients without help.
High Organic Matter, Low Storage
This county boasts a high organic matter content of 2.70%, which is well above the state and national averages. Despite this, the available water capacity is low at 0.148 in/in, meaning water moves through the profile quickly.
Rapid Drainage in Coastal Plains
While specific hydrologic data is missing, the high sand content ensures rapid drainage across the county. This helps prevent standing water but requires gardeners to be diligent with irrigation and mulching.
Prime Territory for Blueberries
In zone 9a, the mild winters and acidic soils are perfect for blueberries, azaleas, and citrus trees. Take advantage of the high organic content and long growing season to start your fruit grove today.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pearl River County have?
Pearl River County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 30% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pearl River County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pearl River County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Pearl River County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pearl River County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pearl River County's soil?
Based on Pearl River County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Pearl River County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pearl River County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pearl River County
Soil Verdict
Pearl River County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Pearl River County is somewhat warmer than the Mississippi statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pearl River 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.