Hyde County Soil Data
Hyde County, North Carolina
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
17.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hyde County, North Carolina
High-Performing Coastal Peat Soils
Hyde County boasts a soil score of 51.8, nearly double the state average of 29.4. Its pH of 5.24 is slightly higher than the state average of 5.14, though it remains well below the national median of 6.5. These soils are unique coastal assets, often characterized by deep organic layers.
Sand and Silt Over Clay
The soil consists of 57.4% sand, 23.3% silt, and just 8.0% clay. This very low clay content is offset by a massive amount of organic material, creating a spongy rather than gritty feel. This mix allows for easy root penetration and prevents the soil from hardening like brick in the sun.
Off-the-Charts Organic Matter
Hyde County features an extraordinary 17.15% organic matter, dwarfing the state average of 5.12%. This leads to a high available water capacity of 0.158 in/in, the highest in this group. This soil is naturally 'fat' with nutrients and can sustain intense plant growth with minimal assistance.
High Water Table Challenges
Despite the high sand content, the massive organic matter levels and low elevation make this soil act like a sponge. Drainage can be slow in these low-lying areas, and the soil stays moist much longer than inland sandhills. Builders must be cautious of the high water table and potential for soil subsidence.
Abundance in Zone 8b
In the mild Zone 8b climate, Hyde is a powerhouse for corn, soybeans, and large-scale vegetable production. The rich organic soil also supports lush ornamental gardens and diverse native wetlands. Dig into some of the state's most fertile earth and watch your garden explode with life.
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 Hyde County have?
Hyde County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 23% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hyde County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hyde County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Hyde County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hyde County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hyde County's soil?
Based on Hyde County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Hyde County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hyde County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hyde 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.