Avery County Soil Data
Avery County, North Carolina
Avg pH
4.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
10.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Avery County, North Carolina
Intensely Acidic Mountain Ground
Avery County soils are very acidic with an average pH of 4.83, falling well below the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.14. This strong acidity is a defining feature for local ecology. While specific taxonomic orders are not listed, the chemical profile suggests highly weathered mountain parent material.
Balanced Texture for High Altitudes
The soil contains 49.7% sand, 28.8% silt, and 13.5% clay. This creates a texture that is loose enough for good drainage but contains enough silt to prevent nutrient leaching. It is a resilient physical mix that can handle the heavy rainfall typical of the region.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter is an incredible 10.53%, which is five times higher than the national average and double the state average. This is paired with a strong available water capacity of 0.145 in/in. These metrics indicate a soil that is naturally rich in nutrients and remarkably good at supporting plant life.
Natural Water Retention and Flow
Formal drainage and hydrologic group data are currently unavailable for Avery County. The high organic matter content typically helps slow water movement, acting like a sponge for mountain rain. Users should account for the county's steep slopes when planning any drainage or construction projects.
A Cold-Hardy Oasis in Zone 6b
As one of the coldest spots in the state, Zone 6b is ideal for rhododendrons, blueberries, and Fraser firs. The ultra-high organic matter makes this soil a dream for forest-dwelling plants that love acidic conditions. Your mountain garden will thrive with the right acid-loving species.
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 Avery County have?
Avery County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 29% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Avery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Avery County's soil has a low pH of 4.8, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Avery County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Avery County.
What crops or plants grow well in Avery County's soil?
Based on Avery County's Loam texture, pH of 4.8, 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 Avery County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Avery County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Avery 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.