New Hanover County Soil Data
New Hanover County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Sandy clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in New Hanover County, North Carolina
New Hanover's Balanced Coastal pH
New Hanover's soils average a pH of 6.05, placing them much closer to the national median of 6.5 than the state average of 5.14. While taxonomic data is currently limited for this coastal area, the acidity levels are relatively mild for the region. This makes the soil versatile for a variety of landscaping and agricultural uses.
High Sand Content Drives Drainage
The soil is comprised of 72.9% sand, with 18.5% silt and only 8.7% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent workability and aeration for root systems. However, such a sandy mix typically loses nutrients faster than heavier clay soils.
Strong Organic Matter, Low Water Retention
Organic matter reaches 4.51%, which is more than double the national average of 2.0%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.067 in/in, significantly trailing the state average of 0.134 in/in. Gardeners must prioritize consistent irrigation to keep plants hydrated.
Fast-Moving Coastal Hydrology
Standard drainage classes are not currently recorded, but the 72.9% sand profile suggests rapid drainage. This composition is ideal for avoiding root rot but requires careful management of runoff. Homebuilders should find the soil stable, provided they account for the rapid water movement.
Lush Gardening in Zone 8b
With a hardiness zone of 8b, New Hanover is perfect for growing heat-tolerant species like oleander, palmettos, and camellias. The soil score of 45.7 sits well above the state average of 29.4, indicating high relative potential. Grab your shovel and take advantage of this coastal growing environment.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does New Hanover County have?
New Hanover County's soil is classified as Sandy clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 73% sand, 18% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is New Hanover County's soil acidic or alkaline?
New Hanover County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for New Hanover County?
New Hanover County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in New Hanover County's soil?
Based on New Hanover County's Sandy clay loam texture, pH of 6.0, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in New Hanover County?
New Hanover County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: New Hanover County
Soil Verdict
New Hanover County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°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
New Hanover County closely matches the North Carolina average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for New Hanover 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.