Graham County Soil Data
Graham County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
21.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Graham County, North Carolina
Highly acidic mountain soil
Graham County has an extremely acidic pH of 4.59, the lowest in this group. This is far below the national median of 6.5, reflecting the unique chemistry of its high-elevation environment.
Rich textures and low sand
The soil is only 36.8% sand, paired with 27.2% silt and 12.4% clay. This creates a dense, rich texture that provides superior structural support for the county's massive forest trees.
Extraordinary organic matter levels
Graham boasts a staggering 21.00% organic matter, nearly four times the state average of 5.12%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is 0.128 in/in, which is slightly lower than the state mean.
Water movement in the mountains
While drainage class data is missing, the extreme organic content ensures the soil remains moist and nutrient-dense. This composition is vital for maintaining the lush, temperate rainforest conditions found in the area.
Cool-climate gardening in Zone 7a
Zone 7a is perfect for apples, berries, and cool-weather greens that struggle in the heat of the plains. With such high organic matter, your plants will have a massive head start.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Graham County have?
Graham County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 27% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Graham County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Graham County's soil has a low pH of 4.6, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Graham County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Graham County.
What crops or plants grow well in Graham County's soil?
Based on Graham County's Loam texture, pH of 4.6, 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 Graham County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Graham County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Graham County
Soil Verdict
Graham County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Graham County is somewhat cooler than the North Carolina statewide average. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Graham 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.