Duplin County Soil Data
Duplin County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Duplin County, North Carolina
Classic coastal plain acidity
Duplin County soil has a pH of 5.06, which is slightly more acidic than the North Carolina average of 5.14. Like most of the region, it sits well below the national median pH of 6.5.
A sandy profile for easy tilling
The mix is 70.5% sand and only 7.9% clay, creating a light soil that is very easy to work with machinery. The 13.1% silt content adds just enough body to keep the soil from being pure sand.
Solid organic matter near state norms
Organic matter is 4.78%, nearly reaching the state average of 5.12%. However, the available water capacity of 0.120 in/in is slightly low, suggesting that crops may need extra water during the peak of summer.
Rapid infiltration requires monitoring
Though specific drainage data is missing, the 70.5% sand content points toward very high drainage rates. Farmers should be aware that water and liquid fertilizers may move through the soil quickly.
Abundant harvests in Zone 8a
Zone 8a provides a long season for Duplin's famous agricultural output, from corn to soybeans. Home gardeners can succeed with almost any summer vegetable provided they monitor moisture closely.
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: Loamy Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Duplin County have?
Duplin County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 70% sand, 13% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Duplin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Duplin 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 Duplin County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Duplin County.
What crops or plants grow well in Duplin County's soil?
Based on Duplin County's Loamy Sand 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 Duplin County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Duplin County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Duplin County
Soil Verdict
Duplin County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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. 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.
Regional Context
Duplin County closely matches the North Carolina average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Duplin 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.