Macon County Soil Data
Macon County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
11.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Macon County, North Carolina
Rich, Acidic Mountain Earth
Macon County has an acidic soil pH of 4.94, which is lower than the state average of 5.14. This profile reflects the unique environmental pressures and mineral leaching typical of the Appalachian Highlands.
Balanced Sandy-Silt Composition
The soil composition is an even 50.0% sand, with silt at 25.2% and clay at 13.8%. This balanced mix offers excellent physical properties for both drainage and healthy plant root development.
Elite Levels of Organic Matter
Organic matter is a standout feature at 11.59%, more than double the state average of 5.12%. The available water capacity of 0.135 in/in is also slightly above the state norm, indicating excellent moisture retention.
Excellent Spongelike Water Management
Specific drainage class records are currently missing from the dataset. However, the 11.59% organic content suggests the soil manages water very effectively, acting like a sponge for heavy mountain rainfall.
High-Yield Potential in Zone 7a
Zone 7a is a paradise for cool-climate crops such as kale, potatoes, and berries. With such high natural organic matter, Macon County gardeners have a significant head start on building fertile, productive plots.
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 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Macon County have?
Macon County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 25% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Macon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Macon County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Macon County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Macon County.
What crops or plants grow well in Macon County's soil?
Based on Macon County's Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Macon County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Macon County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Macon County
Soil Verdict
Macon 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
Macon 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 Macon 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.