Ashe County Soil Data
Ashe County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ashe County, North Carolina
Acidic Soils of the High Country
Ashe County soils maintain a pH of 5.20, sitting between the state average of 5.14 and the national median of 6.5. This acidic profile is characteristic of the mountain landscape and the weathered minerals found here. Detailed taxonomic classifications for the area are currently being updated.
A Versatile Silt and Sand Blend
The soil consists of 45.1% sand, 37.2% silt, and 15.5% clay. This high silt content makes the soil feel smooth and helps it hold onto moisture and nutrients better than sandier counties. It provides a stable, workable medium for a variety of agricultural uses.
High Organic Content in the Mountains
Organic matter is high at 4.33%, which is more than double the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.151 in/in also beats the state average of 0.134. These figures indicate a productive soil that naturally supports the lush vegetation found in the High Country.
Understanding Mountain Hydrology
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not currently available for Ashe County. The blend of silt and sand suggests moderate drainage that can support both farming and building. Because of the mountain terrain, localized runoff and slope drainage are more critical factors than the soil type alone.
Thriving in the Cool Zone 7a
The cool Zone 7a climate makes Ashe a premier location for Christmas trees and cool-season vegetables like cabbage and potatoes. High organic matter gives these crops a significant nutritional head start. Dig in and start your mountain garden 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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ashe County have?
Ashe County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 37% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ashe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ashe County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Ashe County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ashe County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ashe County's soil?
Based on Ashe County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Ashe County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ashe County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ashe County
Soil Verdict
Ashe County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Ashe County is somewhat cooler than the North Carolina statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ashe County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in North Carolina
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.