Person County Soil Data
Person County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Person County, North Carolina
Person County's Moderately Acidic Soil Profile
Person County soil shows an average pH of 5.57, which sits nearly a full point below the national median of 6.5. While more acidic than national standards, it remains significantly less acidic than the North Carolina state average of 5.14.
A Gritty Mix with Coarse Texture
The soil is predominantly sand at 56.6%, mixed with 27.8% silt and 15.6% clay. This coarse texture ensures the ground is easy to work and resists heavy compaction during the rainy season.
Strong Water Retention Despite Low Organic Matter
Organic matter levels reach 1.28%, falling short of the 5.12% state average and the 2.0% national benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.139 in/in beats the state average, meaning the soil retains moisture effectively for thirsty crops.
Managing Runoff in Sandy Soil
While specific drainage class data is currently unavailable, the high sand content suggests naturally rapid movement of water through the profile. Farmers and builders should verify local conditions before starting projects to ensure stability and proper runoff management.
Thriving Gardens in Zone 7b
Located in hardiness zone 7b, this county provides a stable environment for blueberries and azaleas that thrive in acidic conditions. Adding lime can help balance the pH for a wider variety of garden vegetables.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Person County have?
Person County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 28% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Person County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Person County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Person County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Person County.
What crops or plants grow well in Person County's soil?
Based on Person County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Person County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Person County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Person County
Soil Verdict
Person County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°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
Person County is somewhat cooler than the North Carolina statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Person 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.