Bertie County Soil Data
Bertie County, North Carolina
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Bertie County, North Carolina
Acidic Sands of the Inner Banks
Bertie County soils are acidic with an average pH of 4.89, which is well below the national median of 6.5. This is also more acidic than the state average of 5.14. Like much of the coastal plain, these soils are shaped by their proximity to the Albemarle Sound.
Sand-Dominant Riverine Soils
The soil is 61.7% sand, 23.4% silt, and 12.3% clay. This high sand content provides excellent drainage and makes the soil warm up quickly in the spring sun. It is a light, easy-to-work texture that is favored for specific row crops like peanuts.
Solid Organic Foundation
At 3.10%, the organic matter is healthy, exceeding the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.139 in/in, which is slightly above the North Carolina average of 0.134. This means the soil has a good balance of fertility and moisture retention for a sandy region.
Managing Water in Sandy Terrain
Drainage class and hydrologic group data are not yet mapped for Bertie County. The high sand percentage usually implies quick water movement, but the low-lying elevation can lead to drainage challenges. Growers should be mindful of local elevation and the potential for water to sit during wet seasons.
Peanuts and More in Zone 8a
Bertie’s Zone 8a climate and sandy soils are legendary for peanut production and cotton. These conditions also support thriving vegetable gardens with crops like sweet potatoes and melons. Take advantage of the easy-to-till soil and start your planting season early.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bertie County have?
Bertie County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 62% sand, 23% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bertie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bertie 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 Bertie County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bertie County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bertie County's soil?
Based on Bertie County's Sandy 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 Bertie County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bertie County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bertie 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.