Transylvania County Soil Data
Transylvania County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Transylvania County, North Carolina
Rich but Acidic Mountain Soils
Transylvania County has a very acidic pH of 4.86, well below the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is currently missing, the overall soil score of 39.4 is the highest among its neighbors.
A Stable Loamy Base
The composition features 51.6% sand and 28.0% silt, creating a stable and workable ground. This blend allows for good root development while maintaining a higher moisture retention than sandier regions.
Extremely High Organic Matter
The soil contains a massive 8.45% organic matter, far surpassing the state average of 5.12%. Combined with a high available water capacity of 0.145 in/in, this land is exceptionally fertile for local flora.
Superior Moisture Retention
Specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this county. The high water capacity suggests the soil holds onto rainfall effectively, which is ideal for the county's lush rainforest-like environment.
Lush Growth in Zone 7b
This zone and the high organic matter are perfect for growing rhododendrons, ferns, and deep-rooted vegetables. Dig into this rich mountain soil and start your most productive garden yet.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Transylvania County have?
Transylvania County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 28% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Transylvania County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Transylvania County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Transylvania County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Transylvania County.
What crops or plants grow well in Transylvania County's soil?
Based on Transylvania County's Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Transylvania County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Transylvania County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Transylvania County
Soil Verdict
Transylvania 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
Transylvania County is somewhat cooler than the North Carolina statewide average. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Transylvania 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.