Caswell County Soil Data
Caswell County, North Carolina
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Caswell County, North Carolina
Highly Weathered Ultisols in Caswell
The county's dominant soils are Ultisols, which are highly weathered and naturally acidic. At 5.46, the average pH is higher than the state average of 5.14 but remains well below the national median of 6.5.
A Versatile Clay Loam Mix
This soil consists of 53.8% sand, 29.7% silt, and 15% clay. This clay loam texture provides a stable balance that is easier to work than pure clay while retaining more nutrients than sandy soils.
Strong Water Capacity Despite Low Organic Matter
Organic matter is quite low at 1.18%, falling far behind the North Carolina average of 5.12%. However, the available water capacity of 0.158 in/in is superior to the state average of 0.134 in/in, ensuring plants stay hydrated.
Well Drained for Farming and Building
The soil is classified as well drained and falls into hydrologic group B. This means water infiltrates the ground at a moderate rate, reducing the risk of runoff and saturated roots.
Hardy Crops for Zone 7b
Caswell resides in hardiness zone 7b, where the clay loam supports robust fruit trees and perennials. While you should add lime to raise the pH, the natural water retention makes this a great spot for a home orchard.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Caswell County have?
Caswell County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 54% sand, 30% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Caswell County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Caswell County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Caswell County?
Caswell County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Caswell County's soil?
Based on Caswell County's Clay loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Caswell County?
Caswell County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
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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.