Forsyth County Soil Data
Forsyth County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Forsyth County, North Carolina
Forsyth's typical Piedmont acidity
Forsyth County features a soil pH of 5.48, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.14. However, it remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5, a common trait for this region.
Balanced textures for better retention
The local soil mix contains 58.7% sand, 23.6% silt, and 16.7% clay. This moderate clay content helps the soil hold onto nutrients and water better than the sandier counties to the east.
Lower organic matter in the Triad
At 1.28%, organic matter in Forsyth is lower than both the national 2.0% and state 5.12% averages. The available water capacity of 0.131 in/in is nearly on par with the state average of 0.134 in/in.
Managed water in the landscape
Formal drainage class data is not available, but the 16.7% clay content provides a stable structure for land development. The soil profile generally offers enough drainage to prevent waterlogging in typical Piedmont weather.
Gardening success in Zone 7b
Hardiness zone 7b supports a wide variety of perennials and cool-season vegetables like kale and carrots. With a little compost to boost organic matter, your Forsyth garden will flourish.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Forsyth County have?
Forsyth County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 59% sand, 24% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Forsyth County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Forsyth 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 Forsyth County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Forsyth County.
What crops or plants grow well in Forsyth County's soil?
Based on Forsyth County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.5, 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 Forsyth County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Forsyth County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Forsyth County
Soil Verdict
Forsyth County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°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
Forsyth County is somewhat cooler than the North Carolina statewide average. The zone range of 7b-8a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Forsyth 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.