Orange County Soil Data
Orange County, North Carolina
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orange County, North Carolina
Piedmont Soil with Moderate Acidity
Orange County features a pH of 5.35, which is slightly less acidic than the North Carolina state average. Though taxonomic classification data is not currently available, this pH level is roughly one point lower than the national median of 6.5. It represents a typical transition into the Piedmont's complex soil chemistry.
High Silt and Clay Balance
The county has a more balanced mix than coastal regions, with 48.5% sand, 32.9% silt, and 15.6% clay. This composition offers much better nutrient retention and structural stability than sandier soils. It may be slightly harder to work when wet, but it holds its shape well.
Exceptional Water Retention Properties
Available water capacity is high at 0.140 in/in, beating the state average of 0.134 in/in. Organic matter is lower at 1.24%, falling below the national average of 2.0%. While you may need to add compost, your plants will benefit from the soil's natural ability to hold onto moisture.
Stable and Retentive Hydrology
While drainage class data is N/A, the significant silt and clay percentages suggest moderate to slow drainage. This can lead to some runoff during heavy rains, requiring thoughtful landscaping to manage water flow. The soil provides a firm foundation for both agriculture and infrastructure.
Piedmont Planting in Zone 8a
Gardeners in Zone 8a can grow a wide range of vegetables and ornamentals, from tomatoes to hydrangeas. The soil is particularly good for species that require consistent moisture levels throughout the season. Start your garden today to take advantage of these water-retentive Piedmont soils.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orange County have?
Orange County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 33% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orange County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orange County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Orange County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orange County.
What crops or plants grow well in Orange County's soil?
Based on Orange County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Orange County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orange County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orange 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.