Pender County Soil Data
Pender County, North Carolina
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pender County, North Carolina
Standard Coastal Plain Acidity
Pender County has a pH of 5.24, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.14. Taxonomic data is currently missing, but the acidity level is typical for this part of the country. It remains significantly more acidic than the national median pH of 6.5.
Sandy Soil for Easy Working
The county's soil is 65.8% sand, 20.4% silt, and 8.8% clay. This high sand percentage makes the ground very easy to till and work with by hand. However, the low clay content means the soil has less natural ability to store nutrients over time.
Moderate Organic Matter and Retention
Organic matter levels sit at 4.90%, which is very close to the state average but much higher than the national 2.0%. Available water capacity is 0.119 in/in, indicating moderate drought resistance. It is a solid, productive soil that benefits from regular mulching.
Permeable Coastal Hydrology
While the specific drainage class is not available, the high sand content ensures that water moves through the profile efficiently. This helps prevent standing water after the heavy rains common in coastal North Carolina. Proper irrigation planning will help maintain moisture during dry periods.
Coastal Versatility in Zone 8b
In Zone 8b, Pender County is a prime location for strawberries, blueberries, and coastal pines. The soil score of 33.5 is comfortably above the state average, showing good relative health. Whether you're farming or gardening, this soil provides a great start for your green thumb.
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 Pender County have?
Pender County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 66% sand, 20% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pender County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pender 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 Pender County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pender County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pender County's soil?
Based on Pender 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 Pender County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pender County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pender 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.