Stone County Soil Data
Stone County, Mississippi
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Stone County, Mississippi
Very Acidic Soil Profile
Stone County features very acidic soil with a pH of 5.00, falling short of both the state average of 5.30 and the national 6.5 benchmark. This high acidity is the primary factor local gardeners must manage for healthy plant growth.
Sandy Terrain for Easy Workability
The soil is dominated by 61.6% sand, with 26.8% silt and only 10.5% clay. This sandy composition makes the earth easy to work and till, though it lacks the nutrient-holding power found in clay-heavy regions.
Strong Organic Matter, Low Water Storage
The county boasts 2.27% organic matter, exceeding the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 1.81%. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.142 in/in, significantly behind the Mississippi average of 0.174 in/in.
Fast-Draining Coastland Soils
Although official hydrologic groups aren't listed, the 61.6% sand percentage typically ensures rapid drainage across the landscape. This makes the area less prone to pooling but requires careful irrigation to prevent plants from drying out.
Bountiful Zone 9a Growing
Located in zone 9a, this warm climate supports a long growing season for citrus and blueberries. The rich organic matter provides a great foundation for any home orchard, provided growers manage the low 5.00 pH level.
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 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Stone County have?
Stone County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 62% sand, 27% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Stone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Stone County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Stone County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Stone County.
What crops or plants grow well in Stone County's soil?
Based on Stone County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Stone County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Stone County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Stone County
Soil Verdict
Stone 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
Stone County is somewhat warmer than the Mississippi statewide average. The zone range of 8b-9a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Stone 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.