Stokes County Soil Data
Stokes County, North Carolina
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Channery fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Stokes County, North Carolina
Weathered Piedmont Ultisols
Stokes County features Ultisols with a pH of 5.29, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.14. These are old, weathered soils typical of the Piedmont region.
Channery Fine Sandy Loam
The dominant texture is a Channery fine sandy loam, composed of 60.6% sand and 16.8% clay. This provides a gritty yet structured soil that is easy to till while resisting heavy compaction.
Reliable Water for Plants
Organic matter is low at 1.55%, falling below the state benchmark of 5.12%. However, the available water capacity of 0.136 in/in is strong, providing a steady supply of moisture to roots.
Well Drained for Healthy Roots
The soil is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This means it has a moderate infiltration rate, making it excellent for farming and residential gardening without drainage issues.
Diverse Planting in Zone 7b
The 7b hardiness zone is perfect for everything from kale to berries. Take advantage of the well-drained loams in Stokes County and start your garden this season.
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: Channery fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Stokes County have?
Stokes County's soil is classified as Channery fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 61% sand, 22% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Stokes County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Stokes 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 Stokes County?
Stokes 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 Stokes County's soil?
Based on Stokes County's Channery fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Stokes County?
Stokes County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Stokes 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.