Richmond County Soil Data
Richmond County, North Carolina
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Richmond County, North Carolina
Typical North Carolina Acidic Soil
Richmond County soil records a pH of 5.19, aligning very closely with the North Carolina state average of 5.14. It remains significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, which is typical for the state's Piedmont transition.
Easy Cultivation with Sandy Mix
The mix is 57.2% sand, 25.9% silt, and 14.9% clay, providing a texture that is generally easy to cultivate. This ratio allows for decent air circulation around roots while providing some body for stability.
A Need for Supplemental Irrigation
At 1.45% organic matter, the soil is below the state average of 5.12% and the national benchmark of 2.0%. Its water capacity of 0.116 in/in is also lower than the state average, suggesting that supplemental irrigation may be necessary.
Rapid Water Movement Patterns
While specific hydrologic data is not available, the sand-heavy profile indicates that water likely moves through the soil profile quite rapidly. Farmers should be mindful of nutrient runoff during heavy North Carolina rainstorms.
Summer Favorites Thrive in Zone 8a
In zone 8a, gardeners can take advantage of long summers to grow robust tomatoes and okra. The soil's sandy nature is particularly well-suited for root vegetables if provided with consistent water.
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 Richmond County have?
Richmond County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 26% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Richmond County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Richmond 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 Richmond County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Richmond County.
What crops or plants grow well in Richmond County's soil?
Based on Richmond 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 Richmond County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Richmond County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Richmond 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.