Walthall County Soil Data
Walthall County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Walthall County, Mississippi
Highly Acidic South Mississippi Soils
Walthall County soils average a pH of 5.08, which is considerably more acidic than the state average of 5.30 and the national 6.5 median. This sharp acidity reflects the weathered nature of the region's land, requiring significant amendments for most traditional row crops.
Sandy Texture for Quick Drainage
The soil composition is 47.9% sand and 40.3% silt, leaving a low clay fraction of just 11.9%. This sandy profile means the ground is easy to till and work, but it lacks the natural nutrient-holding capacity found in heavier clay soils.
Lower Nutrient and Water Retention
With an organic matter content of 1.65% and available water capacity of 0.164 in/in, these soils trail state averages in both categories. Growers must focus on building soil health through cover cropping to improve how the land holds onto both fertilizers and water.
Navigating High Permeability
While specific drainage class data is missing, the nearly 48% sand content indicates that water likely moves through the soil profile rapidly. This reduces the risk of root rot but increases the need for consistent irrigation during the peak of summer.
Lush Growth in Zone 8b
Walthall falls into zone 8b, providing a long growing season for heat-tolerant favorites like okra, watermelons, and sweet potatoes. The acidic profile is a natural fit for southern pines and blackberries, which thrive in these specific conditions.
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 Walthall County have?
Walthall County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 40% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Walthall County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Walthall County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Walthall County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Walthall County.
What crops or plants grow well in Walthall County's soil?
Based on Walthall County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, 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 Walthall County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Walthall 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.