Rankin County Soil Data
Rankin County, Mississippi
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Rankin County, Mississippi
High Acidity Levels near Jackson
Rankin County soils are notably acidic, with an average pH of 4.94, well below the state average of 5.30. This pH level is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, making it one of the more challenging areas for pH-sensitive plants. The county’s soil score of 30.5 sits below the Mississippi state average of 35.7.
Silt-Dominated Soil Structure
Silt makes up 51.8% of the soil, providing a fine texture that is supported by 30.9% sand and 14.2% clay. This high silt content makes the soil susceptible to erosion if not covered by vegetation or mulch. The lower clay percentage ensures the soil doesn't become too compacted, but it may lack some nutrient-holding capacity.
Strong Moisture Storage Potential
Rankin County features an available water capacity of 0.188 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.174 in/in. However, organic matter is relatively low at 1.52%, compared to the 1.81% state average. Gardeners will find that adding organic amendments can bridge the gap between high water storage and low nutrient levels.
Silty Soil and Water Movement
Specific drainage classifications are unavailable, but the 51.8% silt content typically indicates moderate to slow drainage. This silt-heavy soil can hold onto water for extended periods, which is beneficial during the hot Mississippi summer. Care should be taken to avoid soil compaction, which silty soils are particularly prone to when wet.
Expanding Gardens in Zone 8b
Rankin County is in hardiness zone 8b, providing a long, hot growing season for heat-loving crops. While the acidic pH of 4.94 is a challenge for some, it is ideal for blueberries and camellias. With a bit of lime and compost, your zone 8b garden will yield a bounty of summer vegetables.
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 Rankin County have?
Rankin County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 52% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Rankin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Rankin 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 Rankin County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Rankin County.
What crops or plants grow well in Rankin County's soil?
Based on Rankin County's Silt 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 Rankin County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Rankin County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Rankin 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.